Control Arms Steering or Suspension?

Control arms are definitely part of the suspension system, not the steering system.

Here's why:

• Suspension System: The suspension system is responsible for absorbing shocks from the road, keeping the tires in contact with the ground, and supporting the weight of the vehicle. Control arms are a key component of this system. They connect the wheels to the vehicle frame and allow the wheels to move up and down while maintaining proper alignment.

• Steering System: The steering system is responsible for directing the vehicle in the intended direction. While the suspension and steering systems work together, the control arms don't directly control the direction of the wheels. That's the job of components like the steering wheel, steering column, steering rack, and tie rods.

Think of it this way:

• Control arms: Hold the wheels in place and allow them to move up and down over bumps.
• Steering system: Tells the wheels which way to turn.

While control arms don't directly steer the vehicle, they do influence steering feel and stability. Worn control arm bushings or ball joints can cause problems like:

• Wandering or pulling to one side
• Uneven tire wear
• Clunking or banging noises when driving over bumps

So, while control arms are part of the suspension system, they play an important role in overall vehicle handling and steering performance.