Parts for your 2017 Volvo Xc60-Control arms

2017 Volvo XC60 Control Arms — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Based on technical sources including Volvo VIDA (factory service information), the Volvo OE parts catalogue for the P3-platform XC60 (2008–2017), and mainstream workshop manuals, the 2017 Volvo XC60 is fitted with control arms. Up front it runs a MacPherson strut layout with lower control arms that carry the bushings and ball joint, at the rear it uses a multi-link arrangement with several arms/links to control wheel movement and alignment.

On this XC60, the control arms connect the wheel hub/knuckle to the subframe, allowing the suspension to move while keeping alignment steady. The rubber (or hydro) bushes soak up vibration and road harshness, while the ball joint lets the steering and suspension pivot smoothly. The result is confident handling, even tyre wear, and solid braking feel on everything from corrugated country roads to slick city streets.

Owners will typically notice worn control arms through clunks over bumps, a shimmy under braking, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear. It’s smart to have them inspected at regular services (every 10,000–15,000 kilometres is a good rhythm) or sooner if doing a lot of rough-road driving. Pay attention to cracked or oil-soaked bushes, torn ball-joint boots, and any free play at the joint.

Replacement strategy depends on condition and budget. Many XC60 front lower arms allow separate bush and ball-joint renewal, but a complete arm can save press work and time. Quality OE or reputable aftermarket arms are recommended, and it’s best practice to replace in pairs on the same axle. Always torque the bush bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the rubber, and follow Volvo’s one-time-use fastener guidance where applicable. A four-wheel alignment is essential afterwards to protect tyres and restore precise steering.

Service tips Aussie and Kiwi XC60 owners rate:

• Listen for knocks over speed humps, tramlining, or brake shudder — common early tells.
• Check bush and joint condition at each service, coastal and outback use can accelerate wear.
• Plan on assessment around the 80,000–150,000 km mark, earlier if the vehicle tows or sees rough tracks.
• After replacement, rotate tyres and verify alignment printouts to keep wear even.

These arms do a quiet but crucial job, keeping them in good nick maintains the XC60’s safe, comfy road manners and extends tyre life.

Popular questions about 2017 Volvo XC60 control arms

Does the 2017 Volvo XC60 have control arms front and rear?
The 2017 XC60 uses front lower control arms in its MacPherson strut setup, and a multi-link rear with multiple arms/links. Technical documentation (Volvo VIDA and OE parts diagrams) confirms both axles rely on arm-and-bush architecture to manage wheel location and alignment.

How long do XC60 control arm bushes and ball joints last?
There’s no hard expiry, but many owners see wear symptoms between 80,000 and 150,000 kilometres. Harsh roads, heavy loads, or lots of stop–start driving can bring that forward. Regular inspections and an alignment check after any suspension work keep things on track.

Can the bushes be replaced separately, or is a full arm needed?
On many 2017 XC60s, the front lower arm bushes and ball joint can be serviced separately with the right tools. That said, a complete arm is often cost-effective once labour and pressing time are considered. Either way, use quality parts and finish with a proper alignment.