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If your Chevrolet Cruze feels loose in corners, has uneven tire wear, or shows suspension noise, the control arm is a likely contributor. Choosing the right control arm affects steering responsiveness, ride comfort, and alignment stability, so you want components that fit precisely and hold up under daily driving. This guide covers seven shortlisted control arms chosen for fitment reliability and construction quality. We evaluated each option across key factors like material strength, bushing quality, and compatibility with factory suspension geometry to help you pick the best replacement for your Cruze.
Looking for other parts? See all Chevrolet Cruze parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | MOOG RK620265 Front Left Lower Suspension Control Arm and Ball Joint Assembly |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Metrix Premium Chassis Parts Front Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint Kit (Left & Right) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | TRQ Front Lower Control Arm with Ball Joint Set (2-piece) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Auto Shack Front Lower Control Arms with Ball Joints and Bushings (2‑PC) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Detroit Axle Front Upper Control Arms with Ball Joints, Front Pair |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Detroit Axle Front Lower Control Arms with Ball Joints (pair) |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | TRQ Front Steering & Suspension 10-Piece Kit (PSA37350) for Chevrolet Cruze |  |
1. MOOG RK620265 Front Left Lower Suspension Control Arm and Ball Joint Assembly
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Iron |
| Manufacturer | MOOG Chassis Products |
This MOOG control arm is a direct-fit front left lower suspension assembly that replaces the factory unit and includes the ball joint preinstalled. It is engineered for structural strength and corrosion protection, with heat-treated components and coated studs to resist rust and extend service life. Typical use is a front suspension repair or rebuild where worn control arms or a loose steering feel are present; installation is intended to be straightforward because the arm is made to match factory mounting points and tolerances. Notable features include a machined exterior, a preinstalled ball stud shaped for longer fatigue life, and e-coated cast iron and steel for added corrosion resistance. In practice the part restores proper wheel alignment, reduces steering play, and stops rattling that comes from worn suspension linkage. Limitations are that fitment is vehicle-specific so confirming exact Chevrolet model year and trim is necessary and replacement may require alignment and torque to manufacturer specifications; the unit is substantial in weight compared with lighter aftermarket options and does not include additional hardware like some kits do.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize factory-quality repairs and long service life for routine front suspension maintenance on Chevrolet vehicles.
Less Ideal for: Buyers looking for a universal or lightweight performance arm or those wanting a full hardware kit included should consider other options.
- Direct-fit design for straightforward installation and correct steering geometry
- Preinstalled ball joint reduces parts and simplifies replacement
- Heat-treated construction and coated studs for improved durability and corrosion resistance
- Vehicle-specific fit requires verifying year/engine/trim before purchase
- Does not include supplementary hardware or consumables needed for some installs
Verdict A durable, factory-style front left lower control arm assembly built for long life and reliable, direct-fit replacement on compatible Chevrolet models.
2. Metrix Premium Chassis Parts Front Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint Kit (Left & Right)
| Fitment | 2012-2017 Buick Verano; 2011-2015 Chevrolet Cruze; 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt; 2010 Chevrolet Cruze (Mexico); 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Limited |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Position | Front Lower |
| Quantity | 2 (left and right) |
This Metrix Premium kit supplies both front left and right lower control arms with integrated ball joints, intended to replace worn front-lower suspension components on compatible Chevrolet Cruze models. The parts arrive pre-greased and aim for a direct, vehicle-specific fit so they slip into the existing suspension with minimal modification for a typical DIY or shop installation. Notable features include factory-quality manufacturing standards and certification claims intended to match or exceed factory performance, plus preinstalled bushings and ball joints to save installation time. In real-world use the kit should restore steering stability and reduce front-end noise and play once installed and aligned. Limitations are typical of complete arm assemblies: installation requires proper tools and alignment, and long-term durability will depend on road conditions and driving habits. The kit covers both sides, which is convenient but means you replace a healthy arm if only one side is worn.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize convenience and want a ready-to-install, vehicle-specific replacement that minimizes parts sourcing and reduces shop time.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking an adjustable or performance-tuned suspension upgrade or owners who prefer replacing only a single failed component to save cost.
- Sold as a matched left and right pair for consistent front-end geometry.
- Pre-greased assemblies reduce prep time and simplify installation.
- Manufactured to certifications aimed at meeting or exceeding factory standards.
- Includes integrated ball joints and bushings so no separate sourcing is required.
- Requires mechanical skill and proper alignment after installation.
- Durability depends on driving conditions and cannot be judged solely from fitment.
Verdict A convenient, vehicle-specific front lower control arm kit that simplifies replacement and restores front-end stability for Chevrolet Cruze owners.
3. TRQ Front Lower Control Arm with Ball Joint Set (2-piece)
| Fitment | Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2016 (front lower) |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 2 Piece control arm set |
| Position | Front lower, driver and passenger |
| Exterior | Machined |
This TRQ two-piece front lower control arm kit replaces both driver and passenger lower arms and arrives with ball joints already installed to speed installation. Designed as vehicle-specific, direct-fit replacements for Chevrolet Cruze models, the arms are machined and pre-assembled so they line up with factory mounting points and reduce the need for modifications. In real-world use the preinstalled ball joints and solid bushings save hours compared with swapping individual components, and buyers report improved steering response and reduced front-end vibration after installation. TRQ also provides DIY installation videos which help tackle the job without specialized tools. Negative reports are mostly about occasional shipping mistakes and some early failures reported by a few users, so long-term durability varies by use and driving conditions. For someone seeking a performance-oriented, ready-to-install replacement that tightens up front-end feel, this kit delivers clear handling benefits, but expect mixed longevity in heavy-duty or high-mileage applications.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners who prioritize restoring or improving front-end responsiveness and want a ready-to-install, direct-fit replacement for Chevrolet Cruze models.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking maximum long-term durability under heavy towing, aggressive off-road use, or extremely high mileage should consider reinforced or OEM-styled heavy-duty options instead.
- Preassembled with ball joints to reduce installation time and labor.
- Vehicle-specific direct-fit design for Chevrolet Cruze front lower positions.
- Machined finish and solid bushings that improve steering responsiveness and reduce vibration.
- Includes both driver and passenger lower control arms so both sides are matched.
- Some users report premature failures or squeaks within a year under heavy use.
- A few buyers received incorrect or damaged parts during fulfillment in isolated cases.
Verdict A performance-focused, preassembled direct-fit control arm set for Chevrolet Cruze that tightens steering and cuts installation time but has mixed long-term durability reports.
4. Auto Shack Front Lower Control Arms with Ball Joints and Bushings (2‑PC)
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Includes | 2 control arms with ball joints and bushings |
| Exterior | Rust Protected |
These Auto Shack front lower control arms replace the worn factory pieces on 2016–2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Volt vehicles. The kit ships with two pre-assembled control arms that include ball joints and bushings, letting a mechanic or competent DIYer swap both sides in a single job. The parts are described as rust protected and manufactured to automotive quality standards for a direct fit to factory mounting points, which helps restore steering stability and suspension geometry. Practical benefits include receiving both arms in one bundle and not needing to press in ball joints separately. Limitations to note are that hardware may not be premium and some buyers reported supplied nuts that did not hold up to torque, so plan to reuse original fasteners or source stronger hardware; professional installation is recommended for alignment and safety. The product carries a short manufacturer warranty and is intended specifically for matching Cruze/Volt applications.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners looking to restore steering feel and suspension geometry on a Chevrolet Cruze or Volt without paying for OE-priced parts or separate components.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking premium aftermarket parts with extended warranties or those who prefer to replace hardware with upgraded components as part of the purchase should consider higher-end options.
- Ships as a complete pair with ball joints and bushings pre-installed for faster replacement.
- Rust-protected exterior improves corrosion resistance for longevity in road conditions.
- Manufactured to industry quality standards for a direct-fit replacement to factory mounting points.
- Some included fasteners may be low quality and could require replacing with stronger hardware.
- Short six-month warranty offers limited long-term coverage compared with longer warranties on some competitors.
Verdict A cost-effective, direct-fit pair of front lower control arms for 2016–2019 Cruze/Volt buyers who prioritize value but should plan to inspect or replace supplied fasteners.
5. Detroit Axle Front Upper Control Arms with Ball Joints, Front Pair
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Upper |
| Manufacturer Part Number | K620053 x2 |
| Includes | 2x Front Upper Control Arms with Ball Joints |
These Detroit Axle front upper control arms are a direct replacement-style assembly supplied as a pair with ball joints installed. They are intended to restore front suspension geometry and steering response after worn or damaged upper arms are removed. Typical use is a factory-replacement repair on compatible GM trucks and large SUVs where the original upper arms are showing play or wear. Notable features include a complete assembly with pressed-in ball joints and factory-style mounting points so installation is straightforward for a mechanic familiar with upper-arm replacement. The practical benefits are that you get a ready-to-install pair that eliminates the need to press in new ball joints and should simplify alignment afterward. Limitations to be aware of are reports that some ball joints may wear faster in certain climates and that replacement of rusty mounting bolts on older vehicles is commonly required, which can add labor. There are also versions without grease fittings so long-term serviceability depends on the part variation and driving conditions.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers seeking a direct, ready-to-install replacement that restores factory steering feel and avoids custom modification.
Less Ideal for: Users who plan to upgrade suspension performance or regularly require serviceable ball joints should consider premium or serviceable alternatives instead.
- Supplied as a complete pair with ball joints preinstalled for quicker installation
- Vehicle-specific fit and factory-style mounting points simplify replacement and alignment
- Made and tested to automotive industry quality standards with a long warranty offering
- Widely used option with many positive installation reports from users
- Some users report premature ball joint wear in heavy-use cases
- No grease fittings on certain versions which limits re-lubrication
- Older vehicles may require new mounting bolts due to corrosion during installation
Verdict A practical, factory-style replacement pair that saves installation time but may lack serviceable ball joints for heavy-duty longevity.
6. Detroit Axle Front Lower Control Arms with Ball Joints (pair)
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Manufacturer | Detroit Axle |
| Manufacturer Part Number | K621751_K621752 |
These Detroit Axle front lower control arms replace the two lower front arms and ball joints on compatible Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Verano models. Supplied as a left and right assembly, they arrive ready to install and are intended to restore steering geometry and ride quality after worn originals. The parts are manufactured to automotive production standards and Detroit Axle states they undergo impact and fatigue testing. In practice buyers report straightforward installs and improved front-end feel and alignment after replacement. Expect the practical benefits of a near-direct replacement that brings back crisp steering and corrects uneven tire wear without needing additional modification. Limitations to consider are occasional fitment quirks on some vehicles where bolts or hole alignment require patience or reuse of factory fasteners, and these arms are not greasable which restricts joint serviceability over time. For the price they sit squarely between economy and premium aftermarket options, delivering solid value for repair-focused buyers.
Best for: Practical optimizers looking for a reliable, budget-conscious factory-replacement control arm to restore front-end handling and postpone a more expensive shop repair.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking fully serviceable or performance-tuned suspension upgrades or those who require greasable joints and adjustable aftermarket geometry should consider other options.
- Supplied as a complete left and right lower arm pair with ball joints for one-stop replacement.
- Designed for vehicle-specific fit to match factory suspension geometry.
- Manufactured and tested to industry quality standards for consistent performance.
- Many users report easy installation and restored steering feel and alignment.
- Some vehicles show minor fitment or bolt-alignment issues that need patience or reuse of factory fasteners.
- Ball joints are not greasable, limiting long-term serviceability.
Verdict A practical, cost-effective factory-style replacement pair that restores front-end function on compatible Cruze/Verano models but may require patience with fitment and offers non-greasable joints.
7. TRQ Front Steering & Suspension 10-Piece Kit (PSA37350) for Chevrolet Cruze
| Brand | TRQ |
|---|---|
| Model | TRQ PSA37350 10 Piece Steering & Suspension Kit |
| Application Specific Design | No modifications necessary |
| Pre-greased | No additional maintenance required |
| Anti-Corrosion Coated | Enhanced surface life |
This TRQ 10-piece front steering and suspension kit groups the common wear items for the Cruze into a single package: inner and outer tie rods, lower control arms with preinstalled ball joints, steering rack bellows, and sway bar links. It is intended as a direct-fit replacement so DIYers or shops can swap the worn components without modifications, and TRQ ships pre-greased bushings and machined surfaces to help reduce prep work. In practice the kit simplifies a front-end refresh by replacing multiple failure points at once, which restores tighter steering and improved road feel. Some buyers report missing hardware or bushing longevity concerns on long-term installs, so you may need to source a few fasteners during installation and watch for bushing wear over time. The kit is a solid choice when you want a complete, ready-to-install front suspension refresh for a Cruze rather than piecing parts together individually.
Best for: Balanced buyers who want a single, practical solution to refresh the Cruze front end and prefer convenience over sourcing individual parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking OEM dealer parts with guaranteed long-term warranties or users who prefer to replace only a single component at a time.
- Complete 10-piece kit replaces common front steering and suspension wear items in one purchase
- Pre-greased components and machined exterior reduce prep and simplify installation
- Kitted for restored steering feel and handling, making alignment and driveability improvements more likely
- Direct-fit design intended for bolt-in replacement without modifications
- Some customers report missing or nonincluded bolts for specific ball joint fasteners
- At least one long-term report of bushing failure suggests durability may vary by use and conditions
Verdict If you want a convenient, all-in-one front-end refresh for a Chevrolet Cruze, this TRQ 10-piece kit delivers most needed parts for improved steering and handling, but check fasteners and monitor bushings over time.
Choosing the Right Chevrolet Cruze Control Arm: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
Precise fitment matters because control arms connect multiple suspension points and keep wheel alignment stable. A part that matches the Cruze's factory mounting locations and pivot specifications minimizes installation time and reduces the risk of altered steering geometry.
Mismatched or loosely specified arms can cause alignment drift, uneven tire wear, and a change in handling feel. When assessing fitment, consider bolt hole spacing, ball joint taper, and whether the arm is intended for the vehicles model year and trim to avoid surprises at installation.
Materials and Construction
The base material and manufacturing method determine a control arm's strength and fatigue resistance. Forged or stamped steel and cast aluminum options each have tradeoffs: steel often offers durability and impact resistance, while aluminum can reduce unsprung weight for slightly improved ride quality.
Look for arms with corrosion-resistant coatings or treatments, robust welds, and consistent wall thickness. These attributes reduce the chance of cracks, bending, or premature failure, especially in climates with road salt or frequent potholes.
Bushing and Ball Joint Quality
Bushings isolate noise and provide smooth pivoting, while ball joints allow controlled steering movement. Higher-quality rubber or polyurethane bushings maintain alignment and reduce play longer than low-grade counterparts. Similarly, sealed, greaseable, or heavy-duty ball joints improve longevity and steering precision.
When replacing control arms, consider whether bushings are preinstalled and if ball joints are integrated or serviceable. Better components usually translate to firmer steering response and less clunking over time.
Corrosion Resistance and Coatings
Control arms are exposed to moisture, road salt, and debris, so surface protection affects lifespan. Powder coatings, galvanization, or specialized paints limit rust and pitting that lead to structural weakness and failed mounting points.
Choosing arms with proven corrosion resistance reduces the likelihood of unexpected replacement in harsh climates and helps preserve mounting hardware for easier future service.
Serviceability and Installation
Consider how easy the arm is to install and maintain. Features like preinstalled bushings, included hardware, or grease fittings for ball joints can shorten install time and reduce the likelihood of installation errors. Clear fitment instructions and compatibility with factory torque specs also matter.
Easier serviceability lowers labor costs and decreases the chance of incorrectly tightened fasteners or misaligned components, which can otherwise lead to poor handling or warranty issues.
FAQ
How do I know if my Chevrolet Cruze needs a control arm replacement?
Common signs include clunking or popping noises from the front suspension during acceleration or braking, uneven tire wear, a wandering or loose steering feel, and visible play at the wheel when the car is jacked up. Sometimes damage or bent arms are visible on inspection. If you notice these symptoms, have the suspension inspected and compare symptoms to bushing or ball joint wear.
Can I replace only the bushings instead of the whole control arm?
Replacing bushings alone is sometimes possible and can restore quieter pivoting and alignment retention, but it depends on the arms design. Some arms use pressed-in bushings that require special tools, while others have integrated components that are not serviceable. Assess the arm for structural damage and consider labor and tool requirements before deciding between bushing-only work or full-arm replacement.
Should I choose a lower control arm or an upper control arm replacement?
Decide based on which component shows wear or damage. Lower control arms typically bear more load and are more prone to bushing and ball joint wear, while upper control arms can affect camber and steering geometry. An inspection will reveal which arm has excessive play, corrosion, or deformation so you can replace the necessary part without unnecessary work.
Do aftermarket control arm kits require alignment after installation?
Yes. Any change to a control arm or its bushings can alter suspension geometry, so a wheel alignment is usually necessary after installation. Alignment restores proper toe and camber settings and helps prevent uneven tire wear and poor handling. Plan for an alignment as part of the service.
How long do replacement control arms usually last?
Lifespan depends on driving habits, road conditions, and the parts construction. In normal driving conditions with durable materials and quality bushings, control arms often last many years. Harsh roads, frequent potholes, or corrosive environments can shorten service life, so inspect suspension components periodically for wear or damage.
How We Chose the Best Chevrolet Cruze Control Arm
To compile this list we focused on components that restore factory steering and suspension geometry while resisting premature wear. Our selection criteria emphasized accurate fitment to Chevrolet Cruze suspension points, robust material and forging processes that affect longevity, and high-quality bushings and ball joints that reduce play and noise. We also prioritized parts designed for predictable handling and consistent alignment retention after installation. We excluded items that required extensive modification, adapters, or significant suspension alterations. Also filtered out products lacking documented fitment information for the Cruze or showing common early-failure modes in user reports. The final picks balance durability, compatibility, and serviceability for real-world driving conditions.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When selecting a control arm for a Chevrolet Cruze, prioritize precise fitment, durable construction, and high-quality bushings and ball joints. Those factors most directly affect steering feel, alignment stability, and long-term reliability. Balance corrosion protection and serviceability with the expected driving conditions. Plan for a post-installation alignment and regular inspections to maximize the life and performance of the replacement components.
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