My 2006 S60 has 114k miles on it. After a recent tire rotation, the mechanic said the right lower control arm bushing is bad,the rubber is gone and it is metal on metal. I don't want to keep going back to the suspension to replace parts as they wear out so I am planning on replacing the whole control arm on both sides. My question is, should I replace the ball joints too at this time? I don't know if the ball joints are worn but I at 114k there must be some wear.

I changed the front struts on the car a few years ago, does the above repair require any more mechanical ability? In other words, can a relatively low-experienced home mechanic do this or is it better to let a professional do it?

 

Not necessary, the ball joints might still be good. Have the same miles as yours and they are still perfect.

It is very difficult to press back in the ball joint. Have a read over forums, some managed to press it without the special tool, but others have found it to be almost impossible. Absolutely suspend the axle with a wire so it doesn't hang free, too many horror histories on forum about dismantled axle joints.

For the control arm, either go with the Volvo part, with Meyle ($150 each side off Ebay), or with Energy Suspension polyurethane bushings (need to be pressed in at a garage). Most other aftermaket bushings don't last.

 

Thanks, Oragex for the quick reply. I will leave the ball joints alone. I saw ipd.usa.com has their own brand of control arms for $110 and the myle for $130. Have you heard about the ipd control arms' quality? I used the ipd upper strut mount bearing part in my strut repair and it seemed to be of good quality.