BMW Control Arm Replacements & Upgrades for BMW 5 Series E39 (1996-2003)

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Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. They do more than just keep the alignment in a constant spec - they are a vital locating component for the suspension itself. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals.

Most control arms for BMWs consist of an inner and outer ball joint made of plastic, rubber, Delrin, or metal and covered in grease with a rubber boot to seal it from the outside. The ball joint rotates and spins as the control arm goes through its movements and that will wear the ball joint and make it loose. The grease inside the housing can also get used up, evaporate, or become contaminated from moisture and foreign particles. As the ball joint becomes worn it can result in excess movement within the housing. Your steering and handling will become less precise and there is usually a light clunking or clicking sound. In rare and extreme cases the ball joint can separate from the control arm completely, leading to a total loss of suspension and steering control. You should have the ball joint play checked annually and replace them every 3-4 years. Most track organizations will not allow a car if they are older than three years.

Control arms also take abuse from impacts and handling forces. Aluminum control arms will generally bend and prevent an accurate alignment. Steel control arms will crack and fracture and require close inspection annually and replacement every 3-4 years.

We sell OE BMW, OEM, and performance upgrade control arms from proven manufacturers. The control arm is so important to a BMW suspension that we insist on only top quality brands and designs and will never sell a control arm based on price alone. We also have upgrade packages with superior designs and better bushing options and we have bundled these together with valuable package savings.

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Rear Guide Link - Priced Each
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URO - Corporate Logo
T#:373183
Part#: 33326768791
In Stock at Vendor
$ 33.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-07-2026

$ 32.99 USD
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$ 32.99 USD
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Includes integrated ball joint and bushing
Rear Guide Rod - Left or Right - E39, E60, E63, E65
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Packaged by Turner - Corporate Logo
T#:338099
Part#: 33326777424S1
Ships on Oct 7, 2026
Starting at $ 79.99 USD
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Starting at $ 79.99 USD
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This rear guide rod for the E39 chassis helps to control the toe alignment of the car (the horizontal in/out angle of the tire). There is a rubber bushing on the inside and a ball joint on the outside mounting point. When the bushings on the arm wear out they can contribute to a 'wandering' or 'loose' or unstable feeling in the rear. There may also be a clunking noise associated with bumps. This arm is just one part of the rear suspension, and other parts should be checked to confirm which one is causing the issues. For a complete overhaul of the rear suspension, check out our rear control arm package here .

Brand: Febi-Bilstein, Meyle
Price is for each - order 2 to replace both on the car.
This item fits the following BMWs:
12/2001-2003 E39 BMW 525i 528i 530i 540i M5
2004-2010 E60 BMW 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 528i 528xi 528i xDrive 535i 535xi 535i xDrive 545i 550i
2004-2011 E63 E64 BMW 645ci 650i
2002-10/2006 E65 BMW 745i 745li 750i 750li 760i 760li
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Complete Front Upper Control Arm Upgrade - Left & Right - E39 525i/52...
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Meyle - Corporate Logo
T#:2216
Part#: E396HDARMS
Ships on Nov 18, 2026
$ 339.99 USD
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$ 339.99 USD
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The front control arm bushings is the Achilles heel on the E39 models. The original factory bushings are fluid filled and rely on the fluid to absorb vibration and resist deflection. When the fluid is gone the rubber left over cannot match the original bushing's strength. The left over rubber is not stiff enough to resist the movements from the suspension. The result is a lot of vibration and reduced feedback and response from the steering.

Meyle has addressed this issue with bushings that are not fluid-filled. The bushing is made of solid rubber that will last longer than the original bushing and is a bit stiffer than new originals for better response and feel. The lack of play from the solid rubber design will mean sharper steering, restoring much of the car's precision and 'connected' feel.

This is a package of Meyle HD control arms with the HD bushings already pressed in. This makes for an easy swap out-swap in install. These arms replace the existing stock upper control arms - otherwise known as a tension strut or strut support arm. It's the arm with the twist. The BMW part numbers for these arms are 31 12 1 141 717 and 31 12 1 141 718.

Meyle is a German brand in business since 1958 and all of their products are TUV approved and meet or exceed ISO standards. All Meyle HD parts come with a 4-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Features:

  • 4 Year Warranty

  • All metal ball joints are more reliable and longer lasting than stock

  • Bushings are solid rubber rather than fluid filled, providing longevity and handling feel improvements

This item fits the following BMWs:
1997-2003 E39 5 Series BMW 525i, 525iT, 528i, 528iT, 530i sedans and touring wagons
2000-2003 E52 Z8 Z8 - Z8 Alpina

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Meyle Ball Joint - E38, E39, E53, E60, E61, E63, E64, E65, E66 ...
Two required per vehicle, one per side.
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
Meyle - Corporate Logo
T#:362103
Part#: 33326767748
Ships on Nov 18, 2026
$ 243.99 USD
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$ 243.99 USD
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Pressed into rear wheel carrier

Rear Guide Link - Priced Each
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Corteco - Corporate Logo
T#:15445614
Part#: 33326777424
Back Ordered
$ 28.99 USD
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Triangulates the front of the rear carrier to the subframe.
Race Polyurethane Front Control Arm Bushings - E39
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex Black Series - Corporate Logo
T#:376456
Part#: PFF5-511BX2
In Stock
$ 85.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 85.99 USD
Free Shipping

Control arm bushings play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. Additionally, the inherent stiffness of the urethane material translates body forces much more directly. This means steering inputs from the driver are effectively transferred to the wheels and vital road information is transmitted properly from the wheels to the driver.

Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved steering feel, turn in, more responsive handling and overall improved chassis composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

This part fits the following BMWs:
1998 - 2004 E39 Touring 525i 528i 540i
1996 - 2004 E39 Sedan 525i 528i 530i 540i 

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Powerflex Peformance Polyurethane Front Control Arm Bushings - E39 ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex - Corporate Logo
T#:376789
Part#: PFF5-510X2
Back Ordered
$ 98.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 98.99 USD
Free Shipping

Control arm bushings play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. Additionally, the inherent stiffness of the urethane material translates body forces much more directly. This means steering inputs from the driver are effectively transferred to the wheels and vital road information is transmitted properly from the wheels to the driver.

Powerflex street bushings are ideal for street driven vehicles and those that see occasional autocross or track time. Need bushings for a dedicated track car? Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved steering feel, turn in, more responsive handling and overall improved chassis composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

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Front Curved Heavy Duty Control Arm Meyle - Right
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
Meyle HD - Corporate Logo
T#:376677
Part#: 31121092610
In Stock
$ 120.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

The front control arm bushings is the Achilles heel on the E39 models. The original factory bushings are fluid filled and rely on the fluid to absorb vibration and resist deflection. When the fluid is gone the rubber left over cannot match the original bushing's strength. The left over rubber is not stiff enough to resist the movements from the suspension. The result is a lot of vibration and reduced feedback and response from the steering. 

Meyle has addressed this issue with bushings that are not fluid-filled. The bushing is made of solid rubber that will last longer than the original bushing and is a bit stiffer than new originals for better response and feel. The lack of play from the solid rubber design will mean sharper steering, restoring much of the car's precision and 'connected' feel. 

This control arm comes with the Meyle HD bushings already pressed in. This makes for an easy swap out-swap in install. These arms replace the existing stock upper control arms - otherwise known as a tension strut or strut support arm. It's the arm with the twist. 

Meyle is a German brand in business since 1958 and all of their products are TUV approved and meet or exceed ISO standards. All Meyle HD parts come with a 4-year, unlimited mileage warranty. 

Features:

  • 4 Year Warranty

  • All metal ball joints are more reliable and longer lasting than stock

  • Bushings are solid rubber rather than fluid filled, providing longevity and handling feel improvements

This item fits the following BMWs:
1997-2003 E39 5 Series BMW 540i, 540i Wagon, M5

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Polyurethane Front Control Arm Bushing Set - E39 540, M5
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex Black Series - Corporate Logo
T#:362712
Part#: PFF5-502BX2
In Stock
$ 90.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 90.99 USD
Free Shipping

Control arm bushings play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. Additionally, the inherent stiffness of the urethane material translates body forces much more directly. This means steering inputs from the driver are effectively transferred to the wheels and vital road information is transmitted properly from the wheels to the driver.

Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved steering feel, turn in, more responsive handling and overall improved chassis composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

This part fits the following BMWs:
E39 M5

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Meyle Heavy Duty Front Left Curved Control Arm - E39 540i M5 ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
Meyle HD - Corporate Logo
T#:376674
Part#: 31121092609
In Stock
$ 127.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 127.99 USD
Free Shipping

The front control arm bushings is the Achilles heel on the E39 models. The original factory bushings are fluid filled and rely on the fluid to absorb vibration and resist deflection. When the fluid is gone the rubber left over cannot match the original bushing's strength. The left over rubber is not stiff enough to resist the movements from the suspension. The result is a lot of vibration and reduced feedback and response from the steering. 

Meyle has addressed this issue with bushings that are not fluid-filled. The bushing is made of solid rubber that will last longer than the original bushing and is a bit stiffer than new originals for better response and feel. The lack of play from the solid rubber design will mean sharper steering, restoring much of the car's precision and 'connected' feel. 

This control arm comes with the Meyle HD bushings already pressed in. This makes for an easy swap out-swap in install. These arms replace the existing stock upper control arms - otherwise known as a tension strut or strut support arm. It's the arm with the twist. 

Meyle is a German brand in business since 1958 and all of their products are TUV approved and meet or exceed ISO standards. All Meyle HD parts come with a 4-year, unlimited mileage warranty. 

Features:

  • 4 Year Warranty

  • All metal ball joints are more reliable and longer lasting than stock

  • Bushings are solid rubber rather than fluid filled, providing longevity and handling feel improvements

This item fits the following BMWs:
1997-2003 E39 5 Series BMW 540i, 540i Wagon, M5

Show More Show Less
OEM Lemforder Front Suspension Refresh Kit - Level 1 - E39 540i M5 ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
2X Entries For Our G87 M2 Sweepstakes! We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
Lemforder - Corporate Logo
T#:375100
Part#: 31121092609KT1
Ships in 1 Business Day
$ 568.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
03-09-2026

$ 522.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 522.99 USD
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This OEM Lemforder Level 1 suspension rebuild kit for the E39 addresses the symptoms related to the included components in the front suspension. Common failure items here result in imprecise, wandering steering, or more commonly: the dreaded "death wobble" at 55mph.

Including all four front control arms with bushings, this kit is ideal for a car with tight suspension but with loose ball joints.

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Front Curved Control Arm - Left
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
2X Entries For Our G87 M2 Sweepstakes! We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
URO - Corporate Logo
T#:362016
Part#: 31121092609
Ships in 1 Business Day
$ 84.99 USD
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$ 84.99 USD
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Also commonly known as a traction strut