Parts for your 2017 Honda Cr-v-Control arms

Control Arms on the 2017 Honda CR-V: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Honda CR-V, a popular compact SUV, is known for its smooth ride and reliable handling. When it comes to suspension components, control arms play an essential role in delivering that comfortable driving experience and ensuring vehicle stability. For the CR-V, control arms are indeed a key part of the front suspension setup.

Control arms, sometimes called A-arms or wishbones, are metal components that connect the vehicle's chassis to the wheel hub assembly. On the 2017 Honda CR-V, they form the crucial link between the frame and the front wheels, allowing for controlled movement of the wheels up and down as the car travels over bumps, dips, and other road imperfections. This connection allows the wheels to move while keeping the tires aligned and ensuring the steering stays responsive.

The 2017 Honda CR-V uses a front MacPherson strut suspension with lower control arms. The control arms mount to the vehicle's frame on one end and to the steering knuckle on the other. This arrangement allows the front wheels to move vertically while the control arms maintain proper geometry, which is vital for tyre wear, handling, and overall ride comfort. The rear suspension setup features a multi-link layout that also includes control arms, further contributing to the CR-V's stability and smooth drive.

Control arms themselves consist of two main parts: the arm and the bushings. The arm is typically made of steel or aluminium and is designed to be strong yet light. The bushings - usually made of rubber or polyurethane - act as cushions, absorbing small shocks and vibrations while reducing noise and preventing metal-on-metal contact between the arm and the chassis. Ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckle, allowing the wheels to turn left and right as you steer.

Given their essential role, control arms can wear out or become damaged over time, especially if the vehicle is driven frequently on rough or uneven roads. Worn bushings or ball joints mean the control arms cannot keep the suspension geometry intact, leading to a range of issues:

• Uneven or accelerated tyre wear.
• Loose or imprecise steering feel.
• Clunking noises when going over bumps or during turns.
• Poor ride quality and reduced vehicle stability.

For owners of a 2017 Honda CR-V, keeping an eye on the condition of the control arms and their associated parts should be part of regular vehicle maintenance. When you take your CR-V in for servicing, technicians will usually check the control arm bushings and ball joints for any signs of wear or damage. This can be done with visual inspections and by testing for play or looseness in the suspension.

Replacing control arms or their components isn't something that needs to happen frequently if the CR-V is driven gently and serviced according to schedule. However, if the vehicle is often driven on rough roads, through potholes, or experiences off-road conditions, it's a good idea to have the suspension checked more regularly. Early detection of wear can save time and money, preventing further damage to other suspension parts or tyres.

When it comes time to replace a control arm on a 2017 CR-V, it is highly recommended to use genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts. This ensures the replacement control arms match the original specifications, maintaining safety, performance, and comfort. It's also sensible to replace control arms in pairs (left and right) to keep suspension balance consistent, especially on the front where steering is involved.

Installation of new control arms usually involves removing the old arm, pressing out worn bushings or ball joints if they are separate, and installing the new components with fresh bushings and joints. After replacement, a wheel alignment is essential to ensure the wheels are set to the manufacturer's recommended camber and toe settings. This alignment helps avoid premature tyre wear and keeps the handling sharp and predictable.

For anyone maintaining or servicing a 2017 Honda CR-V, understanding the role and function of control arms is helpful. They might not be the flashiest component under the vehicle, but they are a foundational element of the suspension system. Keeping control arms in good shape directly contributes to safety, ride quality, and the overall enjoyment of driving the CR-V.

It's also worth noting that any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in handling should prompt an inspection of the suspension, including the control arms. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent more expensive repairs down the track and keep the CR-V performing as Honda intended.

So next time you're booking in your trusty 2017 Honda CR-V for a service, it's a good reminder to ask the technician to have a look at those control arms. They might seem like just another part, but they play a starring role in making every drive smooth and safe, whether it's the daily school run or a weekend road trip along Australia's beautiful highways.