Parts for your 2014 Nissan Serena-Control arms

2014 Nissan Serena Control Arms — What They Do and When to Replace

Control arms are used on the 2014 Nissan Serena. Nissan’s C26 Series Service Manual (Front Suspension – FSU section) specifies a MacPherson strut layout up front, paired with a lower link/control arm that carries the ball joint and bushes. The Nissan FAST Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists the front “transverse link (lower control arm)” for left and right sides. Rear suspension varies: most 2WD models use a torsion beam (no separate rear control arms), while some 4WD variants use a multi-link rear with separate arms. So for every 2014 Serena, control arms are relevant at least on the front axle.

On the Serena, the front control arms keep the hub located fore–aft and side-to-side while the strut handles vertical movement. The bushes in the arm isolate vibration and noise, and the ball joint lets the steering pivot smoothly. When in good nick, they help the van track straight, brake cleanly, and feel planted over bumps—handy for school runs, airport shuttles, and long Kiwi or Aussie road trips.

Servicing-wise, it pays to inspect the control arm bushes and ball joints every 20,000–30,000 km or at each service. Look for split rubber, oil-soaked bushes, or any free play. If you hear clunks over speed humps, feel a wander at highway speeds, or notice uneven tyre wear, the control arms (or their bushes/ball joints) deserve a closer look.

• Replacement: Many Serena arms come with the ball joint pre-installed. If bushes are available separately, pressing in new bushes can be cost-effective, but a complete arm often saves time and avoids press-fit hassles.
• Alignment: Always book a wheel alignment after control arm work. Changes to caster and camber can sneak in and chew tyres.
• Fasteners: Torque bolts at normal ride height to prevent bush preload and premature cracking.
• Quality: Choose reputable aftermarket or genuine-spec arms, cheap bushes can squeak or fail early.

If your Serena is a 4WD variant with multi-link rear, a technician should also check rear arms and bushes for play. For everyday 2WD models, focusing on the front control arms as part of routine servicing will keep steering feel tidy and tyre life on track.

Popular questions about 2014 Nissan Serena control arms

What are the common signs my Serena’s control arms need attention?
Owners often report clunks over potholes, a vague or wandering steering feel, and uneven inner or outer tyre wear. A shudder under braking or a knock when shifting from drive to reverse can also point to tired bushes or a loose ball joint. A workshop can confirm with a lever test and visual inspection.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the control arms?
Yes. Even if the arm looks identical, tiny changes in bush position can alter camber and caster. An alignment right after the job protects tyre life, straight-line tracking, and braking stability.

Can I replace just the bushes instead of the whole arm?
It’s possible on many Serena arms if the bushes are sold separately and the arm isn’t bent. However, pressing bushes needs the right tools and technique. If the ball joint is also worn, a complete arm is usually the better-value, lower-hassle fix.