How to Replace Front Lower Control Arm 06-10 Ford Explorer
Difficulty: Advanced · About 100 min · Ford Explorer
Replace the front lower control arm on a 2006–2010 Ford Explorer, support the knuckle and suspension, and tighten the pivots at ride height before alignment.
Tools you will need
- 24mm Socket
- Socket Extensions
- Hammer
- 17mm Wrench
- Rust Penetrant
- Pry Bar
- 16mm Socket
- Jack Stands
- 19mm Socket
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
- 30mm Socket
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Front lower control arm
- Sway-bar link hardware, if damaged
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen lug nuts, raise and support the vehicle securely, then remove the wheel. Support the knuckle so it cannot drop when the control arm is disconnected.
Disconnect the sway-bar link
Hold the link stud while removing its nut from the control arm. Remove the link and keep its washers and bushings in their original order.
Remove the control arm
Remove the strut and ball-joint fasteners, then separate the joint from the knuckle with controlled force. Remove the rear pivot fastener and lower the arm out of the frame.
Install the replacement control arm
Fit the ball joint into the knuckle and start its nut by hand. Position the arm in the frame, install pivot bolts, and reconnect the strut without final tightening yet.
Tighten the suspension at ride height
Raise the knuckle to approximate normal ride height, then tighten the ball-joint, strut, and pivot fasteners to the vehicle's specification. Refit the sway-bar link in its original washer order.
Reinstall the wheel and align
Reinstall the wheel and torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle and arrange a wheel alignment before normal driving.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.