Lower Control Arms OEM vs Aftermarket....

bgcoxgt · May 29, 2023

I need your help deciding between the OEM lower control arms and the aftermarket brands. The compliance bushing needs replacing in my control arms and since I have remove them, I think it's worth replacing the ball joints also (I originally planned to just take the control arms to the dealer and have them press in new compliance bushings, I don't believe they can replace the ball joints in these).

I cannot decide if it is WORTH spending $1000 for OEM control arms or should I get aftermarket ones for $350??? that is a huge price difference. Anyone have brand recommendations and experience using an aftermarket arm?

Apex · May 29, 2023

With oem you are getting known quality. There are several aftermarket suppliers that range from quality to disposable. Considering the price delta, I would probably go aftermarket. I have had good luck with Moog.

bgcoxgt · May 29, 2023

How long have you had the Moog control arms installed and how many miles on them?

Apex · May 30, 2023

I have had good luck with moog, as in the brand. Can’t comment specifically on their control arms.

On my Tacoma, I wanted oem but didn’t want to pay oem price. I found a decent used one from a yard. However considering the age of a used RL gen 1 control arm, I would probably just go aftermarket.

Vlad the Impaler · May 30, 2023

My Moog LCA install noted HERE. Prices from then noted too. No idea what they cost now, but $160 then beats the hell out of the $1000 you state for OEM. If the MOOGs now go for $350, I'm sure glad I got this work competed a few months ago!

About 20 months and 29,000 miles later, no issues or complaints.

Lionelz · Jun 15, 2023

Sounds like Moog LCA is a better choice. We'll start the suspension mods on my friend's 2009 Ridgeline next week. He ordered the new brake pads and nitto tires and looking to do the suspension job at the same time.

bgcoxgt · May 30, 2023

The price is much cheaper on Rock Auto. The price of $350 was from Advanced Auto but I will just order from Rock Auto and save the money. Thanks!

TerpLine · May 30, 2023

I've heard Moog HD is better then your standard Moog, but it could just be what people are saying on German car forums...

bgcoxgt · May 31, 2023

never seen anything about a Moog HD.

Converted1 · May 31, 2023

I second the MOOG's. No issues and about 10k so far. With 2" suspension lift and 1" subframe drop

the ed dude · Jul 3, 2023

I've used Detroit Axle kit (LCAs, Tie rod ends, stabilizer end links) on my 07 Pilot. Put about 15k on them so far they seem to hold up fine. Can be found on eBay and Amazon.

smufguy · Aug 22, 2023

Maybe a bit late, but for what it is worth - here is my input.

I have Mevotech front LCA installed since 2019. Two weeks ago I had to replace the front axles and the LCA bushings were still intact. Shop around for a good prince and factor in shipping.

eurban · Aug 23, 2023

smufguy said:
Maybe a bit late, but for what it is worth - here is my input.

I have Mevotech front LCA installed since 2019. Two weeks ago I had to replace the front axles and the LCA bushings were still intact. Shop around for a good prince and factor in shipping.

What did you use for your front axles?

Lower Control Arms OEM vs Aftermarket....

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