Parts for your 2019 Holden Commodore-Control arms

2019 Holden Commodore control-arms: what they do and when to service them

Based on technical references including GM Holden Service Information (SI) for the ZB Commodore (2018–2020), the Opel Insignia B workshop manual, and parts catalogues from ACDelco and major aftermarket suppliers, the 2019 Holden Commodore is fitted with control-arms. Up front it runs a MacPherson strut with a single lower control-arm (with a ball joint and hydro-bushes), while the rear uses an independent multi-link set-up with multiple control-arms. VXR/HiPerStrut variants still use a lower control-arm at the front.

On this Commodore, the control-arms keep the wheels located as the suspension moves, managing camber, caster and toe so the car tracks straight, steers cleanly and looks after its tyres. The bushes soak up harshness and allow controlled movement, the ball joints give the hub a smooth pivot. When those wear, it shows up as vague steering, clunks on bumps, or feathered tyre edges.

For regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the control-arms every service or 20,000 km—especially if the car tows, sees rough roads, or runs larger wheels. Look for split ball-joint boots, torn bushes, oil contamination on rubber, and any play with a lever check. If there’s movement or perished rubber, replace the affected arm or bush before it starts eating tyres or upsetting stability control.

• Always torque bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes.
• Replace any torque-to-yield (one-time-use) fasteners where specified by GM SI.
• Book a four-wheel alignment after any arm or bush replacement.
• Consider OE-style hydro-bushes for comfort, or quality polyurethane for sharper response (with a small NVH trade-off).

Front lower control-arms on ZB models commonly show bush wear first, rears can develop play in upper or lateral links over time. If there’s knocking over speed humps, steering wander on the motorway, or uneven tyre wear, it’s time for a proper inspection. For WOF/RWC compliance, any looseness or torn dust boots will usually need fixing. A well-sorted set of control-arms brings the Commodore back to that crisp, planted feel owners expect.

Popular questions

Do all 2019 Commodore variants have control-arms?
Yes. All ZB Commodore variants use a front lower control-arm with a MacPherson or HiPerStrut layout, and a multi-link rear with multiple control-arms. Specifications vary slightly by trim and driveline, but control-arms are present across the range.

How often should the control-arm bushes or ball joints be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Inspect them at each service or 20,000 km. Many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh roads, big wheels and towing can accelerate wear. Replace at the first signs of play, torn boots or NVH issues.

Do I need an alignment after replacing a control-arm?
Absolutely. Any arm or bush replacement can shift geometry. A professional four-wheel alignment is essential to protect tyres, restore steering feel and keep the safety systems happy.