How to Remove Control Arm Bushings on a Toyota Camry
by Jeffrey Caldwell
The control-arm bushings and bolts on a Toyota Camry connect the lower control arm to the frame. The lower control arm is designed to move up and down while the front wheels travel over uneven surfaces. The control-arm bushings help isolate the lower control arm and minimize vibrations felt by the driver and passengers. These bushings can wear out over time and might need to be replaced.
Removing the Wheels
Step 1
Raise the vehicle using an automotive jack and support, with jack stands placed underneath the front subframe.
Step 2
Unscrew the front lug nuts, using a lug wrench.
Step 3
Lift the wheels off the lug studs.
Separating the Ball Joint
Step 1
Locate the ball joint on the lower control arm.
Step 2
Pull the cotter pin from the ball joint, using needle-nose pliers.
Step 3
Unscrew the castle nut on the ball joint, using a socket wrench.
Step 4
Place a pry bar between the lower control arm and the steering knuckle.
Step 5
Pry the ball joint stud out of the steering knuckle.
Disconnecting the Stabilizer Bar
Step 1
Unscrew the nut that secures the end link to the lower control arm, using a socket wrench.
Step 2
Remove the washers, spacer and rubber bushing from the end link.
Step 3
Slide the end link out of the stabilizer bar.
Removing the Lower Control Arm
Step 1
Unscrew the bolts that connect the lower control arm to the suspension cross-member, using a socket wrench.
Step 2
Pull the lower control arm from the suspension cross-member.
Step 3
Pry the control-arm bushings from the control arm, using a flat-blade screwdriver.
References
- "Chilton's Toyota/Lexus 1988-1992 Repair Manual"; Chilton; 1992
- "Haynes Toyota Camry 1992 thru 1996 Repair Manual"; Chilton; 1999
- "Chilton's Toyota Camry 1997 thru 2001 Repair Manual"; Nichols/Chilton Editors; 2003
Tips
- Be careful not to damage the rubber boot on the ball joint. If you do, the ball joint will have to be replaced.
Things You'll Need
- Automotive jack
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- Socket-wrench set
- Pry bar
- Flat-blade screwdriver
Warnings
- Always follow the instructions listed in the owner's manual when lifting and lowering a vehicle. Failure to do so could cause injury or death.
Writer Bio
Jeffrey Caldwell has been a freelance writer for over five months and has published over 250 articles on websites like eHow and Trails.com. Caldwell writes articles on a wide range of topics including travel, camping and automotive mechanics. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Millersville University.
