Parts for your 2014 Ford Fiesta-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2014 Ford Fiesta

The 2014 Ford Fiesta is a popular choice for city driving and small car enthusiasts across Australia. One common question that pops up among owners and DIY mechanics is whether control arms are part of this vehicle's suspension system and what role they play in keeping the car safe and comfortable on the road. This guide sheds some light on the purpose of control arms on the 2014 Fiesta, and why they are an essential component, as well as offering some practical advice for maintenance and replacement.

Control arms are definitely fitted on the 2014 Ford Fiesta. Like many modern passenger cars, the Fiesta uses a front suspension setup that incorporates control arms to connect the wheel hubs with the chassis of the car. On the front suspension, you'll typically find lower control arms, and in some designs, upper control arms contribute to keeping the wheels properly aligned through their travel. These arms are fundamental to the car's handling, steering precision, and overall ride quality.

So, what exactly do control arms do? Think of them as hinged links that allow the wheels to move up and down independently while keeping the wheels aligned with the chassis. This is crucial when driving on bumpy or uneven roads, allowing the suspension to absorb shocks without compromising the ability to steer safely. Control arms also help maintain the correct camber angle of the wheels which affects tyre wear and vehicle stability, especially when cornering or braking.

On the 2014 Ford Fiesta, the front suspension is a MacPherson strut type, a popular setup for small cars due to its cost-effectiveness and efficient use of space. In this suspension, the lower control arm plays a big starring role. It is a sturdy metal component, often forged or stamped steel, that attaches to the vehicle's frame at one end and to the wheel hub or steering knuckle at the other end. This arrangement allows the wheel to pivot vertically while maintaining lateral alignment.

Control arms are linked to the car's chassis via bushings that act like small cushions to absorb some of the vibrations and noise from the road. By doing so, they improve comfort for the driver and passengers and reduce wear on other suspension components. These bushings do wear out over time, though, which can cause symptoms such as clunking noises, poor handling, or even uneven tyre wear. This makes inspecting control arms and their bushings a key part of any servicing routine for the Fiesta.

Maintaining the control arms on your 2014 Ford Fiesta is relatively straightforward but crucial for safety and performance. A mechanic will usually check for play or wear in the bushings and ball joints during regular service visits. It involves visual inspections and sometimes lifting the vehicle to test for movement by hand. If worn bushings or ball joints are detected, replacement is recommended to restore optimum handling and ride quality.

It is worth noting that failing to replace worn control arm components in a timely manner can lead to more significant problems. For example, worn bushings allow excessive movement which can cause the wheel to move out of alignment, leading to poor steering response and uneven tyre wear. That means you might need to replace your tyres sooner than expected, or you could even risk losing control in extreme cases. Also, driving with damaged control arms can place extra stress on other suspension parts, leading to costly repairs down the track.

When it comes to replacing control arms on the 2014 Ford Fiesta, it is usually recommended to replace both the arm and its associated bushings and ball joints as a set. This helps ensure even wear and consistent performance. It's also a good opportunity to align the front suspension to the manufacturer's specifications afterwards. Most automotive workshops in Australia can handle this, and they will often recommend replacement if the control arms show more than moderate wear.

From a DIY perspective, changing control arms can be a tricky task because they are integral to wheel movement and steering components. Proper tools and experience are essential to ensure safety and proper fitment. It's definitely one of those jobs where some light mechanical skills help but you might want to seek professional assistance to avoid any risks.

On the bright side, the control arms fitted on the 2014 Ford Fiesta tend to be quite durable under normal driving conditions. Many owners find that they can go well beyond 100,000 kilometres without major issues if the vehicle isn't driven aggressively or exposed to rough off-road terrain. However, if you regularly drive over potholed roads, gravel, or uneven surfaces, it's smart to have your suspension components, including control arms, checked more frequently.

All in all, the control arm is a fundamental component of the 2014 Ford Fiesta's suspension system. It keeps the wheels in the right place while allowing the suspension to absorb shocks, ensuring the car handles well and rides comfortably. If you're servicing your Fiesta, keeping an eye on the condition of your control arms and related bushings can save you money on tyres, improve road safety, and avoid more extensive suspension repairs later on. Whether you tackle it yourself or leave it to a trusted mechanic, it's definitely one part of the Fiesta worth paying attention to.