How to Replace Rear Lower Control Arms 09-12 Ford Escape
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 75 min · Ford Escape
Renew a rear lower control arm on a 2009–2012 Ford Escape after separating its ball joint from the knuckle, then tighten the bonded arm bushing near ride height.
Tools you will need
- Hammer
- Torque Wrench
- Rust Penetrant
- Jack Stands
- 18mm Socket
- 19mm Socket
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Rear lower control arm
- Wheel lug nuts
Steps
Raise and support the rear
Loosen the wheel lug nuts while the vehicle is on the ground. Raise the rear, support it securely on jack stands, remove the nuts, and take off the wheel.
Separate the ball joint and arm
Apply rust penetrant to the ball joint fastener and loosen it with an 18 mm socket. Leave the nut engaged briefly while tapping the knuckle to release the taper, then remove the fastener and arm bolt.
Fit the replacement arm
Place the new arm in position and start its chassis bolt loosely. Guide the ball joint into the spindle and thread its nut on by hand so the parts remain aligned.
Tighten the suspension fasteners
Use a floor jack beneath the suspension to bring the arm near normal ride height. Tighten the arm and ball joint fasteners to the vehicle's specifications, then lower the jack.
Reinstall and secure the wheel
Mount the wheel and hand-start all lug nuts. Snug them evenly, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to the vehicle's specification in a crossing pattern.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.