Hello,
My bushings are apparently very cracked and bad. Dealer says I have to replace the entire control arm (both front, right and left) to get new bushings. Is that correct? Thanks so much.

 

No you can replace just the bushings. WIth that said, the control arm needs to come out and you'll need a proper set of tools (ie a press) to do the R+R and need to find the correct bushing. Plus on some volvos, the ball joint is part of the control arm so its really a lot easier and a more complete job to replace the entire control arm. Do both with an OEM quality part and you'll be set for the next 100K+ miles,

 

Thank you. The dealer said I couldn't do just the bushings - had to do the whole arm. How do I verify this is true for my model? Also, I just had the control arms replaced about 50,000 miles ago. ----> I accidentally drove over a curb/planter a few months ago (in 2023) and horrendously did $5,000 worth of damage to the underside of the vehicle (filed an insurance claim). Volvo didn't catch the damaged bushings during that 2023 accident, claims the bushings were totally fine but admit they have no records and could've missed them being torn/ripped. QUESTION: Is it possible that driving over that planter/curb to have torn those bushings? I highly suspect that's what tore them up. Thank you!

 

I'd interpret the dealer as saying, they can't help you with doing just the bushings - ie the factory doesn't sell just the bushings so you'd be on your own with figuring out how to source the correct part and mechanically getting them inserted. As to the bushings having been replaced 50K miles ago, did you have Genuine volvo parts installed? I've seen after market control arm bushings wear out after 50K miles. I think the point about root cause is moot - regardless of planters/curbing the car, you need to replace the units again.

 

Also if you had them done at the dealership (with Volvo parts) they are warrantied for life.

 

NOT correct. Volvo dealer made my pay $1,300 for replacement even tough a Volvo dealership was the last place I had them replaced. They are reneging on their warranty.

 

According to Volvo - Volvo parts installed at Volvo dealers are warranted for life - Perhaps your 2nd dealer was not aware of your previous work. (unless those are considered "wear and tear" parts)



https://www.volvocars.com/in/l/parts-warranty/