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Replacing a worn control arm can noticeably improve steering precision, reduce vibration, and restore stable handling in everyday driving. If you drive a Buick LaCrosse, choosing the right control arm matters for safety, ride quality, and suspension longevity. This guide shortlists seven top control arm options chosen for their fitment accuracy and bushing durability. We evaluated each option on build quality and compatibility to help you find a part that suits repair and maintenance needs. Read on for the key factors and practical notes before choosing a replacement.
Looking for other parts? See all Buick LaCrosse parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Metrix Premium Chassis Parts Front Left & Right Lower Control Arm Assembly Kit |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Psrorkeu Front Lower Control Arm Kit with Ball Joints, Set of 2 |  |
| 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 | AUTOKAY Front Left Lower Control Arm with Ball Joint |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | ILONPA Front Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit with Ball Joints and Tie Rods |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Detroit Axle Front Control Arms Kit with Outer Tie Rod Ends for Buick LaCrosse |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Detroit Axle Front End 14‑Piece Suspension Kit (Vehicle Specific Fit) |  |
1. Metrix Premium Chassis Parts Front Left & Right Lower Control Arm Assembly Kit
| Material Type | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Quantity in the box | 2 |
This Metrix kit supplies left and right front lower control arms with pre-installed ball joints and bushings for direct replacement on compatible Buick LaCrosse vehicles. Made from aluminum and pre-greased, the assemblies are intended for bolt-in installation and aim to restore steering precision and front suspension stability. The parts are manufactured to certified quality standards and include features like factory-quality fitment and pre-lubricated joints to reduce initial break-in noise. In real-world use the kit should simplify a front suspension refresh or repair because it replaces worn arms and ball joints in one step, cutting labor compared with sourcing separate components. Limitations to note are that the ball joints are non-serviceable and the aluminum construction, while corrosion-resistant and lightweight, may behave differently from original steel arms under extreme loads. Installation still requires basic suspension tools and alignment after fitting to ensure proper handling.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing convenient, low-hassle repairs who want a ready-to-install, vehicle-specific replacement to quickly restore LaCrosse front suspension performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning heavy-duty use or custom suspension modifications should consider reinforced or performance-specific control arms instead of a direct replacement kit.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Buick LaCrosse to simplify installation
- Includes both left and right lower control arms with integrated ball joints and bushings
- Pre-greased joints reduce initial wear and installation noise
- Aluminum construction offers corrosion resistance and lighter weight than steel
- Manufactured to IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 quality standards
- Ball joints are non-serviceable so the entire arm must be replaced if the joint wears out
- Made from aluminum which may have different fatigue characteristics than original steel arms
Verdict A convenient, ready-to-install replacement kit for Buick LaCrosse owners who want an easy front suspension refresh, but expect to replace the whole arm if the ball joint fails.
2. Psrorkeu Front Lower Control Arm Kit with Ball Joints, Set of 2
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific |
|---|---|
| Package Includes | Front lower left and right control arms with ball joints |
This Psrorkeu kit supplies both left and right front lower control arms with preinstalled ball joints for direct replacement on compatible Buick LaCrosse and related models. It is used to restore front suspension geometry and steering stability after worn control arms cause play, uneven tire wear, or pulling. The arms arrive fully assembled so a mechanic can swap both sides in one job rather than sourcing separate parts. Buyers report the parts match factory mounting points and provide a firm, steel construction that feels durable under normal driving. Practical benefits include reduced installation time compared with assembling ball joints separately and a complete pair for both sides. Limitations to note are variable reports on long-term ball joint durability and the replacement can be a physically demanding install that may require specialty tools or professional labor to avoid damage during removal and fitment. Fitment must be checked against your vehicle's year and submodel before purchase.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a ready-to-install, vehicle-specific pair of front lower control arms to quickly restore steering stability on a Buick LaCrosse without sourcing separate components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a long-term high-mileage upgrade or heavy-duty off-road use should consider premium or reinforced aftermarket options and professional installation services.
- Includes both left and right front lower control arms with ball joints for a complete front-end replacement
- Preinstalled ball joints reduce parts-matching and assembly time
- Vehicle-specific fitment for direct replacement on listed Buick LaCrosse model years
- Steel construction provides a firm, factory-style replacement feel
- Mixed user reports on ball joint longevity raise some durability concerns
- Replacing control arms can be labor intensive and may require professional tools or mechanic installation
Verdict A convenient, ready-assembled pair of front lower control arms for Buick LaCrosse owners who want a direct, time-saving replacement, though long-term ball joint durability varies.
3. TRQ Front Lower Control Arm with Ball Joint Set (2-Piece)
| Fitment | Buick LaCrosse 2010-2016 with RPO GNA (front lower) |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 2 Piece set |
| Position | Front Lower (driver and passenger) |
| Manufacturer | TRQ |
This TRQ kit replaces both front lower control arms with pre-assembled ball joints, intended as a direct-fit repair for compatible Buick LaCrosse models. It is typically used to restore steering precision, eliminate play in the front suspension, and reduce uneven tire wear after worn arms cause looseness or vibration. Notable features include pre-installed ball joints, factory-style bushings, and machined exterior surfaces that simplify bolt-up and alignment. For a performance-oriented buyer the parts deliver firmer steering feel and improved front-end stability compared with worn originals, and the included DIY installation videos make a garage replacement practical for experienced home mechanics. Important limitations: longevity reports vary in reviews so lifespan may depend on driving conditions, and occasional buyers needed additional hardware during installation if factory fasteners were seized. Expect a solid performance upgrade when fitment is confirmed, but plan for a proper alignment after installation and inspect associated fasteners before reuse.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners who prioritize restoring tight steering response and front-end stability on a Buick LaCrosse and prefer a direct-fit, garage-serviceable replacement.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a lifetime-heavy-duty aftermarket upgrade or those unwilling to perform a post-installation alignment should consider alternatives or professional installation.
- Direct-fit design for specified Buick LaCrosse models for straightforward installation
- Ball joints pre-installed to save installation time and reduce assembly errors
- Machined exterior and factory-style bushings that help restore steering precision
- Includes both driver and passenger lower arms so both sides match and wear evenly
- Some buyers report premature wear or noise in a minority of cases, so long-term durability can vary
- May require replacement of seized or damaged factory fasteners during installation
Verdict A practical, performance-oriented direct-fit replacement that restores front-end control on compatible Buick LaCrosse models, with generally strong fitment but variable long-term durability.
4. AUTOKAY Front Left Lower Control Arm with Ball Joint
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Left Lower |
| Auto Part Orientation | Front |
| Replaces Part Number | TC6806, 84198830, 84198832, 84376571, 84376573, CMS501266, 512-01742L |
This AUTOKAY front left lower control arm is a direct replacement designed to restore front suspension geometry and eliminate worn-bushing noise on compatible Buick LaCrosse models. It arrives as a single-piece control arm with an integrated ball joint and vehicle-specific fitment so installation replaces the entire worn assembly rather than swapping individual bushings. In typical use it mounts in the front left lower position and is intended for DIY or shop replacement when the original arm shows play, clunks, or quacking noises under load. The product lists multiple OEM part numbers it replaces and customers report it fits and functions as expected on Malibu and Buick LaCrosse applications. Practical benefits include a straightforward swap that can save on labor compared with bushing-only repairs and the convenience of one unit that restores correct alignment points. Limitations are that it is a direct-fit aftermarket part so finish and long-term durability may vary from factory-quality items and installation can be physically challenging without the right tools and alignment afterward.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners focused on restoring suspension function affordably and who prefer a complete, direct-fit replacement over repairing individual bushings.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking the longest possible factory-grade durability or those unwilling to arrange professional installation and alignment should consider higher-end or dealer-sourced options.
- Vehicle-specific fitment for front left lower position simplifies replacement
- Integrated ball joint and bushings supplied as one unit for a complete repair
- Replaces several common OEM part numbers listed for direct compatibility
- Can save on shop labor by enabling a single-part swap
- Aftermarket construction may differ from factory-quality parts and affect longevity
- Installation can be difficult without proper tools or experience and may require alignment
Verdict A cost-conscious direct-fit front left lower control arm that restores suspension function and reduces repair complexity but may not match factory longevity.
5. ILONPA Front Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit with Ball Joints and Tie Rods
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Unit Count | 3.0 Count |
| Exterior | Milled |
This ILONPA front lower suspension kit bundles the parts you typically replace when front-end wear causes noise or loose steering: a pair of front lower control arms with integrated ball joints, two sway bar end links, and two outer tie rod ends. It is designed for direct fitment to compatible Buick LaCrosse/Impala model years and is intended as a factory-quality replacement for worn components. Installers will appreciate that the control arms come preassembled with ball joints and that the kit aims to preserve steering alignment without extensive modification. The included sway bar links and tie rods let you refresh multiple wear items in one job, which saves time versus sourcing parts separately. Expect typical aftermarket finish and hardware; some users report firm installation effort and the need for an alignment after fitting. This kit is best for owners who want a single purchase to address common front suspension failures, but professional installation or mechanical experience is recommended to ensure proper torque and alignment.
Best for: Risk-averse, mainstream buyers who prioritize restoring factory-like handling and want a single kit to replace multiple front suspension wear items on a Buick LaCrosse.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking performance upgrades, adjustable components, or lightweight race-oriented parts should consider specialty suspension options instead.
- Complete front lower kit bundles control arms, ball joints, sway bar end links, and outer tie rod ends for one-stop replacement
- Vehicle-specific fitment for Buick LaCrosse/related models reduces fitment guesswork
- Control arms arrive preassembled with ball joints to simplify installation steps
- Includes parts that restore steering stability and reduce front-end noise when worn components are replaced
- Requires wheel alignment after installation to ensure proper steering geometry
- Installation can be labor intensive and may need press tools or professional service
Verdict A convenient, vehicle-specific replacement kit for refreshing front lower suspension components on Buick LaCrosse models, best when paired with professional installation and a post-fit alignment.
6. Detroit Axle Front Control Arms Kit with Outer Tie Rod Ends for Buick LaCrosse
| Material Type | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Auto Part Position | Front Lower |
| Auto Part Orientation | Drivers Side |
This Detroit Axle kit replaces both front lower control arms (with ball joints) and the outer tie rod ends to restore steering precision and suspension stability on compatible Buick LaCrosse models. It is a direct-fit, vehicle-specific replacement designed for straightforward installation and to match factory fit and function, making it useful for repairing worn suspension components or refreshing handling. Notable features include premium alloy construction for corrosion resistance and higher rigidity, ball joints with grease zerks for serviceability, and a claimed high-strength structure intended to withstand repeated impact loads. The kit covers several LaCrosse model years and is intended for standard suspension variants. Practical benefits are improved steering feel, reduced play, and the ability to maintain the parts with grease fittings. Limitations are the kit is specific to certain LaCrosse configurations only and does not cover performance-suspension or excluded engine/model variants, so buyers must confirm exact fitment before purchase.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize practical value and longevity and want a cost-effective, ready-to-install replacement to restore factory handling without paying dealer prices.
Less Ideal for: Owners looking for upgraded performance suspension components or those with nonstandard or performance LaCrosse setups should consider performance-focused or model-specific alternatives.
- Direct-fit, vehicle-specific design intended to match factory fit and function
- Premium alloy construction marketed for improved corrosion resistance and rigidity
- Includes ball joints with grease zerks for periodic servicing
- Kit replaces both lower control arms and outer tie rod ends so related components are renewed together
- Fitment is limited to specific LaCrosse configurations and excludes performance-suspension and certain engine/model variants
Verdict A budget-conscious, vehicle-specific front control arm and tie rod kit that restores factory handling and adds serviceable ball joints for longer life.
7. Detroit Axle Front End 14‑Piece Suspension Kit (Vehicle Specific Fit)
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Auto Part Orientation | Drivers Side |
| Includes | Struts, control arms, tie rods, sway bar links, boots |
This Detroit Axle 14-piece front suspension kit is designed as a vehicle-specific replacement package to refresh worn front-end components on compatible Buick Regal models. The kit combines two ready-to-install front struts with coil springs, lower control arms with pressed ball joints, inner and outer tie rod ends with boots, and front and rear sway bar links so you can replace most common wear items in one job. For DIY mechanics or shops it simplifies a rebuild by providing matched parts and grease fittings where applicable, and the included components undergo impact and fatigue testing per the brand. Practical benefits include reducing vibration and restoring steering response after installation and alignment. Customers report generally good fitment and easier installation compared with sourcing parts individually, but there are mixed reports about occasional hardware quality and dimensional tolerances, so expect to verify all fasteners and cotter pin alignment during assembly. This kit is best when you want a coordinated front-end overhaul but should be installed carefully and checked at alignment to ensure safe steering geometry.
Best for: Balanced all-round buyers who want a single, coordinated solution to restore front suspension and steering performance on a Buick Regal without sourcing individual parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking premium aftermarket components for heavy performance use or those unwilling to inspect and possibly replace supplied fasteners should consider higher-end or OEM alternatives.
- Comprehensive kit bundles struts, control arms, tie rods, sway bar links and boots for a single front-end overhaul
- Vehicle-specific fit reduces parts-compatibility hassles and speeds installation
- Ready struts with coil springs simplify assembly compared with buying components separately
- Manufacturer states parts undergo impact, wear and fatigue testing for durability
- Includes grease fittings on serviceable components to ease future maintenance
- Some reviewers reported inconsistent hardware quality and broken bolts during installation
- A few reports mention control arm tolerances and cotter pin hole alignment issues requiring workarounds
- Kit may not include the highest-grade fasteners so expect to inspect or replace some hardware during rebuild
Verdict A convenient, vehicle-specific front suspension bundle that restores handling and steering on the Buick Regal but requires careful hardware inspection during installation.
Choosing the Right Buick LaCrosse Control Arm: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Vehicle Specificity
Exact fitment to the Buick LaCrosse is crucial because the control arm locates suspension geometry and mounting points. A control arm that matches factory dimensions preserves caster, camber, and toe settings and avoids the need for extensive alignment corrections.
Mismatched brackets or mounting hole spacing can produce steering pull or accelerated tire wear. Look for parts that explicitly list Buick LaCrosse compatibility and that use OEM-style mounting interfaces to simplify installation and ensure predictable handling.
Bushing Material and Construction
Bushings isolate road noise and control small suspension movements; their material determines compliance and longevity. Rubber bushings offer quieter ride and some compliance, while polyurethane options trade a bit more NVH for increased durability and firmer steering feel.
Consider how the bushing construction affects low-speed compliance versus high-speed stability. Sealed, bonded bushings tend to resist separation and moisture intrusion better than loose-fit sleeves, which helps maintain consistent steering response over time.
Ball Joint Design and Durability
Many front control arms incorporate a ball joint that serves as a pivot between the wheel carrier and suspension arm. The ball joint's build quality affects steering smoothness and can be a common wear point that leads to play or clunking.
Choose control arms with robust ball-joint assemblies, serviceable boots, and grease fittings where appropriate. Durable ball joints help maintain precise steering input and reduce the likelihood of out-of-round movement that can trigger alignment issues or abnormal tire wear.
Corrosion Resistance and Finish
Control arms are exposed to road salt, moisture, and debris, so corrosion resistance extends service life. Protective coatings, zinc plating, or powder finishes help prevent rust that can weaken mounting points or complicate future removal.
A higher-quality finish also preserves tolerances around bushings and ball joints, reducing the chance of premature failure. Inspects for welded seams and surface preparation when evaluating longevity expectations.
Mounting Hardware and Ease of Installation
Some control arms include replacement bolts, nuts, and alignment shims while others require reusing original hardware. Having the correct mounting hardware reduces installation time and the risk of improper torque or missing components.
Consider whether the part requires pressing in bushings or ball joints and whether a vehicle-specific installation procedure is documented. Parts designed for straightforward bolt-in replacement minimize workshop hours and lower the chance of installation-related issues.
Alignment Retention and Geometry
A replacement control arm should help the vehicle retain factory alignment settings once installed. Arms with adjustable eccentric bushings or precise mounting points make achieving correct toe and camber easier without forced compromises.
If an arm alters suspension height or pivot points, additional alignment adjustments are often necessary. Evaluate how the arm interfaces with existing components to determine the expected extent of alignment work after installation.
FAQ
How can I tell if a Buick LaCrosse control arm is bad?
Common signs include uneven tire wear, a clunking noise when going over bumps, or a noticeable change in steering feel. You may also feel vibration at speed or detect excessive play when the suspension is rocked by hand. A professional inspection can confirm worn bushings or a loose ball joint.
Can I replace just the bushings instead of the whole control arm?
Often bushings can be replaced separately, but that depends on the arm design and whether bushings are bonded or serviceable. Replacing bushings alone can save cost but may require pressing tools and knowledge of alignment procedures. In many cases swapping the entire arm is faster and restores correct suspension geometry more reliably.
Will installing a new control arm fix alignment issues?
A properly fitted control arm can correct alignment problems caused by a worn or bent arm, since it restores correct mounting geometry. However, you should plan for a wheel alignment after installation because bushings and mounting surfaces compress differently when new hardware is installed. Persistent alignment issues may indicate additional suspension components need attention.
Do control arms for the Buick LaCrosse include ball joints?
Some control arms come with an integrated ball joint while others rely on a separate serviceable ball joint. Integrated assemblies simplify installation but mean the entire arm is replaced when the joint wears. Check the part description for whether the ball joint is included or must be transferred from the original arm.
What tools or skills are needed for control arm installation?
Installation typically requires basic hand tools, a torque wrench, and sometimes a ball-joint press or hydraulic tools for pressed-in components. You should be comfortable supporting the vehicle safely and following torque specs. If the job involves pressing bushings or modifying mounting points, professional installation is advisable.
How long do control arms usually last on a Buick LaCrosse?
Longevity depends on driving conditions and material quality, but control arms often last many years under normal use. Exposure to rough roads, heavy loads, or corrosive environments shortens service life. Regular inspections of bushings and ball joints help catch wear early and prevent secondary damage.
How We Chose the Best Buick LaCrosse Control Arm
To assemble this list we screened available control arm options for the Buick LaCrosse using a focused set of vehicle-specific criteria. Primary filters included exact fitment to Buick LaCrosse suspension geometry, verified mounting points, and factory-equivalent alignment features to keep steering and camber specs intact. We prioritized bushing materials and construction methods that reduce vibration and resist premature wear, plus ball joint design where applicable for steering responsiveness. We also considered corrosion-resistant finishes and manufacturing tolerances that influence long-term reliability. Options with unclear vehicle fitment, missing mounting hardware details, or inadequate bushing specifications were excluded. Final selections balanced durability, installation clarity, and the mechanical dimensions that actually affect ride quality and alignment retention.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When replacing a control arm on a Buick LaCrosse, prioritize exact fitment and the quality of bushings and ball joints to preserve handling and alignment. Consider corrosion protection and whether the part includes necessary hardware to simplify installation. Weigh the tradeoff between a bolt-in complete arm and bushings-only repairs: full-arm replacements restore geometry quickly, while bushing repairs can be cost-effective when done by someone with the right tools. Always plan to verify alignment after installation to ensure predictable steering and tire wear.
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