Parts for your 2016 Ford Ranger-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2016 Ford Ranger

The 2016 Ford Ranger is a rugged and reliable ute that's built to handle everything from daily city driving to tough off-road conditions. When it comes to its suspension setup, control arms play a crucial role, particularly in vehicles designed to balance on-road comfort with off-road capability. To clear up any confusion, the 2016 Ford Ranger does indeed come equipped with control arms, especially in the front suspension system.

Control arms are essential components that connect the vehicle's chassis to the wheels. For the 2016 Ford Ranger, the front suspension typically uses a double wishbone design, which includes both upper and lower control arms. These arms help manage the position of the wheels relative to the car's body, ensuring better handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension is generally a leaf spring setup, which means control arms are not part of the rear suspension on this model. So, control arms are relevant and used in the front suspension of the 2016 Ranger, but not in the rear.

Let's dive a bit deeper into what control arms do and why they matter. Control arms act as the pivot points that allow a wheel to move up and down while keeping it in a fixed path within the suspension geometry. Without them, the wheels would wobble uncontrollably, making the ride bumpy and unsafe. The control arms work alongside other components like ball joints and bushings to absorb shocks and vibrations from the road, giving drivers a smoother, more controlled ride.

Over time, control arms do wear out or get damaged - especially if the Ranger is frequently driven on rough terrain or subjected to heavy loads. One of the tell-tale signs that control arms might need attention is a noticeable clunking sound when going over bumps or during turns. Uneven tyre wear and poor steering response can also point toward worn control arms. Because they're critical for safe handling, it's important to keep an eye on their condition.

When servicing the control arms on a 2016 Ford Ranger, mechanics will typically inspect the bushings and ball joints for wear. Bushings are usually made from rubber or polyurethane and act like cushions between the control arm and the chassis, absorbing shocks and allowing some flexibility. Over time, these bushings can crack, dry out, or crumble, which reduces their effectiveness. Likewise, the ball joints, which connect the control arms to the steering knuckles, can become loose or develop excessive play. Both components need to be in good shape to maintain safe steering and ride quality.

If the control arms, bushings or ball joints show signs of wear or damage, replacement is often the safest route. DIY repairs might be tempting, but replacing control arms requires some skill and proper tools, given the need to ensure precise alignment and torque settings. Most workshops will recommend replacing the entire control arm assembly rather than just the bushings or ball joints, as this approach saves time and ensures a longer-lasting fix.

On the maintenance front, regular inspection of the control arms is key - especially if the Ranger is used off-road or often carries heavy loads. This can usually be done during routine servicing such as wheel alignments, tyre rotations, or suspension checks. Staying on top of control arm upkeep helps maintain smooth steering, prevent uneven tyre wear, and avoid costly suspension repairs down the track.

For those looking to boost performance, there are aftermarket control arms available that offer improved materials or adjustable features designed to enhance handling and durability. It's worth noting that these may come at a higher cost, but they can provide added peace of mind, particularly for serious off-road enthusiasts or those who put their ute through tough conditions regularly.

In short, if you own a 2016 Ford Ranger, the control arms in the front suspension are key components that you shouldn't overlook. They play a vital role in keeping your vehicle stable and comfortable on all sorts of terrain. Regular inspections and timely replacements will help ensure your Ranger continues to perform at its best no matter where your adventures take you.