The control arm holds the wheel in place and withstands braking, potholes, and acceleration. When its bushings or ball joint develop play, the alignment shifts under load: the steering becomes vague, the tire wears unevenly, and no wheel alignment adjustment holds.

A new control arm restores the car's original precision - it's a repair, not a performance upgrade, but it's often the most noticeable change you can feel on a ten-year-old car.