Parts for your 2016 Ford Transit-Control arms

Control Arms on the 2016 Ford Transit: What They Do and How to Keep Them in Check

The 2016 Ford Transit is a popular workhorse across Australia, known for its reliability and versatility whether it's on the job site or out on the open road. When it comes to its suspension system, control arms play a crucial role, especially in maintaining ride comfort and handling stability. For those who aren't familiar with the term, control arms are essential components in the front suspension setup of the 2016 Ford Transit, helping to connect the vehicle's chassis to the wheels while allowing them to move up and down smoothly.

Control arms are typically part of an independent front suspension system, which the 2016 Ford Transit utilises. The specific design of the Transit's front suspension involves what mechanics call a "McPherson strut" setup with lower control arms. These control arms act like the vehicle's steering and suspension pivots, ensuring the wheels stay in proper alignment as the van travels over bumps and turns corners. Without control arms, the van would not be able to handle properly, and the ride would be rough and out of control.

One of the key purposes of control arms is to keep the wheels in correct alignment relative to the road surface. They manage the geometry of the suspension, maintaining the angle of the wheels in relation to the vehicle frame. This alignment affects everything from handling and tyre wear to overall vehicle safety. The control arm connects to the chassis at one end and to the wheel hub or steering knuckle at the other, with bushings and ball joints facilitating smooth movement and reducing vibrations.

On the 2016 Ford Transit, control arms are built robustly since the vehicle often carries heavy loads. Given the kind of work this van is frequently put through, the control arms help absorb shocks and impacts from rough roads, protecting other critical parts of the suspension and chassis from damage. Without these sturdy parts, the handling would become unpredictable, potentially leading to premature wear of tyres and other suspension elements.

When it comes to maintaining the control arms on a 2016 Ford Transit, regular inspections are key. Over time, the bushings and ball joints attached to the control arms can wear out due to constant movement, heavy loads, and exposure to the elements. Worn bushings can cause play in the suspension, leading to clunking noises, uneven tyre wear, and poor handling. If left unchecked, this could result in more costly repairs down the track.

Service centres often recommend checking the control arms every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres or during routine suspension inspections. Mechanics will typically look for signs of wear such as cracked or torn bushings, rust, or damaged ball joints. Replacement parts must meet manufacturer specifications to maintain the proper alignment and suspension geometry. Ford Transit owners should opt for genuine or high-quality aftermarket control arms to ensure durability and safety.

Replacing control arms on a 2016 Ford Transit is a straightforward but important job. It usually involves removing the wheel, disconnecting the ball joint and bushings from the chassis, and fitting the new arm in place. After replacement, it is essential for the vehicle to undergo a wheel alignment to ensure the proper steering and suspension angles are restored. This not only extends tyre life but also keeps the van safe and comfortable to drive.

Maintaining the control arms also plays a part in fuel efficiency. When the suspension isn't aligned right, and tyres wear unevenly, the vehicle may encounter increased rolling resistance, which can contribute to higher fuel consumption. So, keeping the control arms and associated suspension components in good nick helps the Transit perform better on all fronts.

In a nutshell, control arms are absolutely relevant and necessary for the 2016 Ford Transit. They provide the vital link between the wheels and the van's body, ensuring the ride is smooth, stable, and safe. Ignoring them could lead to handling problems and increased wear on the vehicle, but with regular checks and timely replacement of worn components, Control arms help keep the Ford Transit running like a champ for many years and kilometres to come.