How to Replace Upper Control Arm 03-07 Cadillac CTS

Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Cadillac Cts

Replace the front upper control arm on a 2003–2007 Cadillac CTS, supporting the strut during removal and tightening the pivots with the suspension at ride height.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel

   Loosen the wheel nuts, raise the front, and support the vehicle securely. Remove the wheel and support the strut and knuckle before disconnecting suspension parts.

2. Separate the upper ball joint

   Remove the pinch fastener from the upper ball joint. Leave its nut flush with the bolt end while tapping it free, then withdraw the bolt and separate the joint from the knuckle.

3. Remove the strut and control arm assembly

   Apply penetrant to stubborn lower strut bolts. Support the strut, remove its lower and upper mounting fasteners, release the clipped line, and lower the assembly carefully.

4. Remove the old control arm

   Remove the control-arm mounting bolts from the strut assembly and lift the arm away. Compare the replacement orientation and bushings before installation.

5. Install the new control arm

   Position the replacement arm and start its mounting bolts by hand. Reinstall the strut and upper mounting fasteners, reconnect the clipped line, and leave pivots loose for ride-height tightening.

6. Reconnect the knuckle and set ride height

   Join the upper ball joint to the knuckle and install its pinch bolt. Raise the lower suspension to approximate ride height and tighten all control-arm fasteners to vehicle specifications.

7. Reinstall the wheel and align

   Refit the wheel and torque the lug nuts to specification. Lower the vehicle and arrange a wheel alignment, then listen for clunks during a short cautious drive.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.