Parts for your 2017 Honda Accord-Control arms

2017 Honda Accord control-arms: what they do and when to replace them

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2017 Honda Accord. Honda’s factory Service Manual for the 9th‑generation Accord (2013–2017) specifies a front MacPherson‑strut layout with a single lower control arm, and a rear multi‑link arrangement with separate upper and lower control arms. Honda’s electronic parts catalogue likewise lists components such as the front lower arm (e.g., 51350‑T2A‑xxx) and rear upper arm (e.g., 52470‑T2A‑xxx). Reputable workshop databases (e.g., Honda Service Information, Mitchell/ALLDATA) mirror the same architecture.

On this Accord, the control arms link the wheel hubs to the body, keeping the suspension geometry in check as the car steers, brakes, and rides over bumps. The bushes in the arms soak up vibration and noise, while the ball joints let the knuckle pivot smoothly. All of that helps the Accord track straight, corner predictably, and wear tyres evenly.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the control-arm bushes and ball joints annually or every 20,000 km—more often if the car lives on rough roads. Look for perished or torn rubber bushes, cracked ball joint boots, rust streaks, and any play. Telltale signs of trouble include clunks over bumps, steering shimmy, wandering under braking, and inner or outer tyre feathering.

When replacement time comes, many owners opt for complete arm assemblies rather than pressing individual bushes—this tends to be quicker and more reliable. On the front, a worn lower arm bush or ball joint can throw out caster and camber, dulling steering feel. At the rear, tired upper or lower arms can upset toe stability and trigger rapid tyre wear.

Good workshop practice matters: support the suspension and torque the arm bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes. Replace any single‑use (stretch) bolts, and always follow Honda’s torque specs. A four‑wheel alignment is a must after control‑arm work, it dials camber and toe back to spec so the Accord feels planted and the tyres last.

For longevity on Aussie and Kiwi roads, quality OEM‑equivalent arms and bushes pay off. Paired with fresh sway bar links and top‑notch tyres, a tight set of control arms keeps the 2017 Accord feeling crisp, quiet, and confidence‑inspiring.

• Service check: inspect bushes/ball joints every 20,000 km or yearly
• Symptoms: clunks, shimmy, wandering, uneven tyre wear
• After any arm replacement: perform a full wheel alignment

Popular questions about 2017‑honda‑accord control‑arms

Does the 2017 Honda Accord have front and rear control arms?
Yes. The front uses a MacPherson strut with a single lower control arm, and the rear is multi‑link with separate upper and lower arms. This setup is confirmed by Honda’s 2013–2017 Accord Service Manual and the Honda parts catalogue.

How long do the control‑arm bushes and ball joints usually last?
It varies with roads and driving style. Many see 100,000–160,000 km before noticeable wear, but harsh conditions can shorten that. Regular inspections pick up cracked bushes, split boots, or play early, preventing tyre wear and vague steering.

Do I need a wheel alignment after changing control arms?
Absolutely. Any control‑arm work can shift camber and toe. A proper four‑wheel alignment gets the Accord tracking straight, maximises tyre life, and restores that tidy steering feel.