Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Control arms

2017 Nissan Navara control arms — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources, control arms are definitely fitted to the 2017 Nissan Navara (D23/NP300). The Nissan Navara D23 Service Manual (Front Suspension section) specifies a front independent double-wishbone layout with upper and lower control arms, ball joints and bushes. Nissan’s FAST/Microcat parts catalogues list front upper and lower control arm assemblies for 2015–2020 Navara models. Major fitment guides used in workshops (e.g., Autodata and OE-equivalent parts catalogues) also list front control arms for the 2017 Navara. Most dual-cab models run a five‑link rear coil-spring arrangement (with trailing links and a panhard rod), while some cab‑chassis variants use rear leaf springs.

On the 2017 Navara, the front control arms locate the front wheels, set camber and caster, and let the suspension move smoothly through its travel. Rubber or hydro bushes soak up vibration, while ball joints allow steering and vertical motion without play. When these wear, the ute can feel nervous on corrugations, wander on the highway, or chew out front tyres.

Servicing-wise, it pays to have control arms, bushes and ball joints inspected at regular services or every 10,000–15,000 km—more often if the vehicle tows, carries loads, or sees off‑road work. Tell‑tale signs include clunks over speed humps, steering shimmy under brakes, uneven tyre wear on the edges, or torn ball-joint boots and perished bushes.

• If replacement’s needed, using quality OEM or reputable aftermarket arms and bushes keeps geometry stable and ride quality tidy.
• Replace arms in axle pairs where possible to keep alignment balanced.
• Always torque control arm bolts at normal ride height so bushes aren’t pre‑loaded.
• Book a proper wheel alignment straight after the job, the Navara relies on correct camber/caster for good tyre life.
• If the ute has a lift kit, consider arms designed to correct geometry, check local compliance (ADR in AU, WOF/LVVTA rules in NZ) before modifying.

For most owners, fresh bushes or complete arm assemblies restore tight steering feel and even tyre wear. On high‑kilometre or hard‑worked Navaras, preventative replacement of front lower arm bushes and worn ball joints can save tyres and improve braking stability, especially before a big towing trip.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Navara control arms

How long do the front control arm bushes last?
Many see 80,000–150,000 km, but heavy loads, corrugated roads, mud and lifted suspension can shorten that. If there’s vibration through the wheel, clunks on take‑off/braking, or you’re rotating tyres more often due to wear on the edges, the bushes are worth a look during your next service.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes. Changing arms or even just bushes alters camber and caster on the Navara’s double-wishbone front end. A proper alignment right after the job prevents rapid tyre wear and restores straight‑line tracking and steering return‑to‑centre.

Can worn control arms cause brake shudder?
They can contribute. Excess play in bushes or ball joints lets the wheel move under braking, which can feel like shudder. It’s smart to check discs, pads and hub runout too, but if shudder persists, inspect the arms and associated bushes.