Parts for your 2014 Ford Falcon-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2014 Ford Falcon

The 2014 Ford Falcon is a classic Aussie favourite, known for its robust build and reliable performance. When it comes to the suspension setup on this particular model, control arms are indeed a key component. Control arms play an essential role in ensuring the suspension functions correctly, providing stability and comfort while driving. This is especially important for a car like the Falcon, which is often put through various driving conditions, from suburban cruising to longer highway hauls.

Control arms connect the wheel hub and steering knuckles to the vehicle's frame, allowing the wheels to move smoothly up and down while maintaining proper alignment and handling. On the 2014 Ford Falcon, control arms are fitted to both the front and rear suspension systems, albeit with design variations depending on the specific trim and suspension layout.

Front control arms on the 2014 Falcon typically consist of upper and lower arms - in fact, the Falcon usually employs a double wishbone or multi-link arrangement at the front. This configuration helps control wheel motion effectively, keeping the tyres on the road and steering precise. At the rear, the Falcon might have trailing arms or a multi-link setup as well, with control arms integral to its independent rear suspension, depending on the model variant.

The primary purpose of control arms is to support the wheels while allowing controlled vertical movement for absorbing road shocks. They provide a pivot point for the suspension system, enabling the wheels to respond to the road surface without transferring every bump and dip to the vehicle's chassis or the passengers. This dynamic is crucial for maintaining ride comfort, vehicle stability, and safe handling at all speeds.

Control arms also play a big part in steering geometry. By maintaining the position and angle of the wheels relative to the road and the car chassis, control arms help ensure correct wheel alignment. Proper alignment reduces tyre wear, improves fuel efficiency, and enhances overall driving safety, especially when cornering or braking suddenly.

When it comes to maintaining the control arms on a 2014 Ford Falcon, there are a few things to keep in mind. Over time, the bushings and ball joints within the control arms can wear out. These components are crucial for absorbing vibrations and allowing smooth pivoting movement. Worn bushings or ball joints usually result in clunking noises during driving, uneven tyre wear, poor handling, and sometimes increased vibration inside the cabin.

Regular inspections of control arms should be part of routine maintenance, particularly if the Falcon is driven on rough roads or carries heavier loads. During a service, mechanics will typically check for signs of wear such as cracked or split rubber bushings, looseness in ball joints, or bent arms caused by bumps or collisions. Early detection means most issues can be fixed before they affect safety or cause more expensive damage.

If replacement is necessary, control arms on the Ford Falcon are generally straightforward to change but should be performed by a skilled technician. Fitting new arms usually involves removing the old arms, carefully pressing out worn bushings, fitting new ones or new ball joints, and ensuring everything is torqued to manufacturer specifications. After replacement, a wheel alignment should always be carried out to reset the steering geometry and prevent premature tyre wear.

A helpful tip for Falcon owners is to pay attention to how their vehicle behaves on the road. If the car starts to pull to one side, the steering feels loose, or any unusual noises emerge from the suspension area, it's a good idea to get the control arms checked. The cost of worn control arms causing further suspension or tyre damage is definitely higher than servicing or replacement early on.

In summary, the 2014 Ford Falcon does use control arms, and these parts are central to the vehicle's suspension function. They support wheel movement, contribute to a comfortable ride, help maintain steering control, and ensure tyre longevity. Keeping control arms in good nick is easier than you might think, and proper maintenance plays a significant role in the Falcon's reputation for dependable and safe driving.