Parts for your 2016 Ford Falcon-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2016 Ford Falcon

The 2016 Ford Falcon is a popular Aussie car known for its robust performance and comfortable ride. When it comes to its suspension system, control arms play a crucial role in ensuring everything runs smoothly. So, are control arms relevant or used on the 2016 Ford Falcon? The short answer is yes. Like most modern vehicles, the 2016 Falcon is fitted with control arms as part of its front and rear suspension setup, making them an important component to understand for anyone owning or servicing this vehicle.

Control arms are an essential link between the car's chassis and the wheels. Their main job is to hold the wheels in proper alignment relative to the body, allowing them to move up and down when driving over bumps without letting the wheels wobble or shift side to side. This not only helps keep the ride smooth but also maintains vehicle stability and steering precision.

On the 2016 Ford Falcon, the front suspension typically uses a double wishbone or multi-link setup depending on the trim level and model variant. Both these systems rely heavily on control arms to provide the right amount of flexibility and strength. The control arms are connected to the vehicle's frame at one end and the wheel hub or knuckle at the other, usually via ball joints and bushings. This design allows for controlled up and down motion while resisting lateral forces when cornering.

So why are control arms so important? Without them, the wheels would have very limited support and would be prone to excessive movement, which can cause poor handling, uneven tyre wear and an uncomfortable ride. Control arms help keep the tyres firmly planted on the road surface, improving grip and safety. Plus, they assist in maintaining the alignment settings of camber, caster and toe angles which are critical for predictable steering response.

Maintaining the control arms is a vital part of servicing the 2016 Ford Falcon. Over time, the bushings within the control arms can wear out or become brittle due to exposure to road grime, heat and constant movement. Worn bushings cause clunking noises, vibrations and can lead to misalignment issues. In some cases ball joints may also show signs of wear, which affect wheel articulation and steering feel.

When inspecting control arms during routine service or suspension checks, it's important to look out for:

• Cracked, split or deteriorated rubber bushings
• Excessive play or movement in the ball joints
• Visible signs of rust or metal fatigue on the arm itself
• Unusual noises from the suspension when driving over bumps

If any of these symptoms are present, the control arms or their components should be replaced to restore proper function. It is generally recommended to replace worn control arms or bushings in pairs (both sides of the axle) to maintain balanced handling. Using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts ensures the suspension geometry stays within factory specifications, helping the Falcon perform as it was designed.

Replacement of control arms on the Falcon is usually a straightforward job for a professional mechanic, but it requires precision tools to correctly torque bolts and sometimes wheel alignment afterwards. A proper wheel alignment after control arm replacement is a must, as misalignment can lead to poor handling and rapid tyre wear.

In terms of servicing intervals, control arms themselves do not have a set replacement schedule like oil or brake pads, but rather they are checked for wear during suspension inspections, which ideally happen every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres or as part of major service milestones. Driving habits and road conditions will affect how quickly these parts wear, so those who frequently drive on rough roads may find themselves replacing control arms or bushings sooner.

For 2016 Ford Falcon owners wanting their vehicle to maintain its handling chops and safety, keeping an eye on control arms as part of regular suspension servicing is a smart move. It is one of those hidden parts that work quietly behind the scenes but make a noticeable difference every time the Falcon hits the road.

In short, control arms are definitely relevant and fitted on the 2016 Ford Falcon, contributing a lot to the vehicle's overall ride quality and safety. Regular checks and timely replacement when worn keep the suspension system performing optimally, ensuring every drive in the Falcon remains enjoyable and safe.