Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Control arms

2017 Nissan Serena control arms: what they do and when to replace them

Control arms are indeed used on the 2017 Nissan Serena. Technical references such as the Nissan Serena C27 workshop manual (Front Suspension – FSU, Rear Suspension – RSU) and OEM/aftermarket parts catalogues identify a MacPherson strut front suspension that uses a lower control arm (also called a lower suspension arm). The common front‑wheel‑drive Serena runs a rear torsion beam setup, which uses trailing arms and a beam rather than traditional upper/lower control arms. So, control arms are relevant at the front of the vehicle.

Up front, the control arm ties the wheel hub/strut assembly to the subframe, setting the arc the wheel travels in and helping maintain alignment angles like camber and caster. The rubber bushes in the arm soak up vibration and road harshness, while the ball joint provides a smooth pivot as the suspension moves. That combo is what gives the Serena its easy, family‑friendly ride and confident steering feel.

Over time, Aussie and Kiwi roads, speed humps, and regular family loads can fatigue the bushes or loosen the ball joint. When wear sets in, the driver may notice vague steering, clunks over bumps, or uneven tyre wear. Many vehicles see control arm or bush replacement somewhere between 80,000 and 150,000 kilometres, but there’s no hard rule—condition and use matter most.

• Common signs it’s time: front‑end clunks, shimmy under braking, pulling or tramlining, and accelerated inner/outer tyre wear.
• Inspection tip: look for cracked, oil‑soaked, or split bushes and any play at the ball joint, check both sides.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the front suspension bushes and ball joints inspected every 12 months or 20,000 km. If replacement’s needed, many workshops prefer fitting complete arms (bushes and ball joint pre‑installed) for reliability and time savings, though bush‑only kits exist. Always torque the arm bolts at ride height to avoid pre‑loading the bushes, and finish the job with a proper wheel alignment. Replacing in pairs helps keep steering feel consistent. While you’re there, have the technician check sway bar links, tie‑rod ends, and strut top mounts—sorting companion wear saves a return visit.

Quality parts, correct torque specs from the Serena C27 manual, and a fresh alignment will bring the front end back to its calm, composed best.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Serena control arms

Does the 2017 Serena have rear control arms?
The front uses lower control arms, yes. The typical front‑wheel‑drive 2017 Serena’s rear is a torsion beam with trailing arms and a cross‑beam, so it doesn’t use traditional upper/lower rear control arms. Certain all‑wheel‑drive or market variants may use additional links, but the common setup isn’t a multi‑link rear.

How often should the control arm bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Have them inspected every service or at least annually/20,000 km. Many Serenas will need bushes or complete arms between 80,000 and 150,000 km depending on roads, loads, and driving style.

Can the bushes be changed without replacing the whole arm?
Yes, bush‑only repairs are possible, but pressing them in correctly is critical. Many workshops choose complete arms with new bushes and ball joint fitted to save time and ensure a lasting result. Either way, a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards.