Find Parts That Fit Your Vehicle

BMW Control Arm Replacements & Upgrades

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.

Sub-Categories

Sort By:

Powerflex BMW E36 & E46 3 Series, Z4, X3 Rear Lower Control Arm Inner...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex - Corporate Logo
T#:34549555
Part#: PFR5-4616H
In Stock
$ 119.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

The Powerflex Rear Lower Control Arm Inner Bushing for BMW E36 and E46 3 Series, Z4, and X3 is designed to provide a significant upgrade over the factory rubber bushings. By using high-performance polyurethane, these bushings enhance the stability, responsiveness, and overall performance of the rear suspension system.

Key Benefits:

  1. Enhanced Handling Performance: The stiffer polyurethane material reduces flex and improves the rigidity of the rear control arm, resulting in better handling and stability during cornering and aggressive driving maneuvers.
  2. Durability and Longevity: Unlike standard rubber bushings, these polyurethane bushings are engineered to withstand wear from road debris, oil, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring they maintain performance over time.
  3. Improved Steering Feedback: With reduced movement and play in the rear suspension, these bushings provide a more direct connection to the road, enhancing steering responsiveness and driver control.
  4. Precision Fitment: Specifically designed for BMW E36 and E46 3 Series, Z4, and X3 models, these bushings ensure an accurate fit and easy installation, making them a straightforward upgrade for enthusiasts.

These bushings are ideal for BMW owners looking to improve the handling dynamics and durability of their vehicle’s rear suspension, suitable for both daily driving and performance-oriented applications.

.

Show More Show Less
Turner Motorsport Thrust Arm Monoball Set - E7x X5/X6 X5M/X6M ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:1965148
Part#: 006309LA01
In Stock
Sale - Save 15% $ 476.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-03-2026

$ 405.44 USD
Free Shipping
Sale - Save 15%
$ 476.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-03-2026

$ 405.44 USD
Free Shipping
The ultimate front thrust arm bushings for your BMW
Powerflex Performance Polyurethane Rear Trailing Arm Bushings - E82, ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex - Corporate Logo
T#:376518
Part#: PFR5-1213X2
In Stock
$ 101.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 101.99 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. 

Show More Show Less

Turner Spherical Monoball Thrust Arm Bearing Upgrade - Pre-Installed ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:397174
Part#: 022013TMSE34KT
In Stock
Sale - Save 15% $ 553.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-13-2026

$ 470.89 USD
Free Shipping
Sale - Save 15%
$ 553.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-13-2026

$ 470.89 USD
Free Shipping

BMW’s are known to have failure prone front thrust arm bushings.  The flexible rubber bushings, even those found in M performance models, allow significant movement of the front wheels to maximize daily driving comfort, but also allow considerable alignment change.  This results in a disconnected and numb road feel, standing between you and a confidence inspiring driving experience.  Eventually the fluid filled rubber bushings fatigue and crack due to continual deflection and ozone degradation, and eventually the damping fluid leaks out resulting in complete failure. 

For the enthusiast looking for superior performance and longevity with a crisp, confidence-inspiring driving experience, our sealed ball joint monoballs are the best solution available!  Our experience with spherical front control arm ball joints go back to those we designed and used in our IMSA E90 328i and E92 M3 racecars (GS class Champions in 2011).  We wanted to offer E31, E32, E34, E38, E39, E53, E60, E63, E64, and E83 owners similar levels of handling precision and control for the track and street. 

The bearing housing is precision CNC machined from 6061-T6 anodized aluminum and features a knurled OD to ensure a perfect press fit, and utilize a sealed OEM BMW ball joint for exceptional quality and durability, making them completely at home on both the street and track with no compromise.  We have done extensive street, autocross, and track testing to ensure the ball joint used in this bushing design excels in each setting.  The advantage of a sealed ball joint is that it eliminates all unwanted deflection while still allowing complete bind-free movement throughout suspension travel, resulting in exceptional control of wheel alignment.  What you get is superior steering precision, turn-in response, direct braking feedback, and better handling.

In short, if you're seeking the ultimate in precise, predictable handling and control, with crisp braking response and a long service life that’s equally at home on the street or track - look no further. We have you covered.

 

 

 


We offer these thrust arms with the monoball bushings pre-installed for your convenience. Since BMW recommends the control arms be replaced for every other bushing change, we prefer to sell these as a pre-assembled set. The bushings are also available separately if you wish to source your own control arms.

 

Features:

Bearing housing

  • Precision CNC machined from 6061-T6 blue anodized aluminum
  • Knurled OD to provide the perfect fit for the wide range of thrust arm bore diameters among brands.
  • CNC machined 304ss ball joint sleeve inserts, providing a precision fit between the ball joint and the subframe. 

Bearing

  • OEM BMW sealed and greased ball joint for exceptional durability and service life.

Performance

  • Nearly instantaneous, crisp steering and braking response.
  • Maintenance free, long lasting performance. 
  • Improved road feel without undesirable NVH.

This item is an upgrade to the following rear wheel drive BMWs: 
1989-1995 E34 BMW 525i 530i 535i 540i M5 

 

Show More Show Less

Turner Motorsport Polyurethane Front Control Arm Bushings - 95A - Pre...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:397626
Part#: 020351TMS01-04
Ships on Sep 15, 2026
Sale - Save 5% $ 238.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-14-2026

$ 227.04 USD
Free Shipping
Sale - Save 5%
$ 238.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-14-2026

$ 227.04 USD
Free Shipping

Here at Turner we understand the importance of an upgrade that will get the results you need on the track and still be tolerable on the drive around town. When it comes to control arms on the track, making them as stiff as you can (usually using solid mounts) is the best way to increase your driving precision by eliminating the deflection of rubber. The next best thing to create a balance would be to stiffen up the control arm with polyurethane, giving you the option of a more stock like feel with 80a or closer to the solid feel with 95a durometers. These poly bushings will give your control arms a direct connection between your suspension and the body of the car eliminating the slop felt under take-off and braking so you feel more in control of your vehicle. 

Already pressed into bracket so you can get right to the install.

*Featuring a delrin sleeve to eliminate heat deformation and premature failure.

 

This item fits the following BMWs that use a centered-style bushing: 

2001-2006 E46 BMW M3 

Show More Show Less
Turner Motorsport Polyurethane Front Control Arm Bushings - 80A -E46 ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:397520
Part#: 020351TMS01-01
In Stock
Sale - Save 3% $ 141.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-03-2026

$ 137.73 USD
Free Shipping
Sale - Save 3%
$ 141.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-03-2026

$ 137.73 USD
Free Shipping

Here at Turner we understand the importance of an upgrade that will get the results you need on the track and still be tolerable on the drive around town. When it comes to control arms on the track, making them as stiff as you can (usually using solid mounts) is the best way to increase your driving precision by eliminating the deflection of rubber. The next best thing to create a balance would be to stiffen up the control arm with polyurethane, giving you the option of a more stock like feel with 80a or closer to the solid feel with 95a durometers. These poly bushings will give your control arms a direct connection between your suspension and the body of the car eliminating the slop felt under take-off and braking so you feel more in control of your vehicle.

*Featuring a delrin sleeve to eliminate heat deformation and premature failure.

This item fits the following BMWs that use a centered-style bushing: 

2001-2006 E46 BMW M3 

Show More Show Less

OEM Lemforder Front Upper Control Arm Right - E34 BMW
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#:393915
Part#: 31121141098
In Stock
$ 95.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-27-2026

$ 85.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 85.99 USD
Free Shipping
Control arms and ball joints take a beating over the years and wear out, causing excess play and sloppy handling. Replace your suspension components with quality components such as OEM Lemforder replacement control arms to restore your tight suspension set up and improve handling.
Show More Show Less
OEM Lemforder Front Control Arm - Right - E36, Z3
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#:3635
Part#: 31121140958
In Stock
$ 171.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
04-10-2026

$ 103.74 USD
Free Shipping
$ 103.74 USD
Free Shipping

This E36 or Z3 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.

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. 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. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.

We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.

Control arms begin to wear over time, leading to sloppy control of your vehicle. Anything from knocking, steering vibration, or even loss of vehicle control could occur. An OEM replacement from Lemförder is the perfect option to restore control and suspension quality.

OEM Lemförder is an engineering company that focuses on high-quality, precision manufacturing of critical suspension and steering components. Providing exceptionally high quality parts directly to BMW, as well as 50+ other big name automotive companies, such as Mercedes and Audi, their history of reliability and variety of offered parts makes them one of the biggest names for a go-to OEM parts provider. Lemförder parts place an important emphasis on design, production, and assembly, ensuring maximum reliability. They even coat all parts possible with corrosion protection for extended longevity.

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!


This item fits the following BMWs:
1992-1995 E36 3 Series 325i, 325is & 325ic
1993-1999 E36 3 Series 318i, 318is & 318ti
1996-1998 E36 3 Series 328i, 328is, 328ic, 323is & 323ic
1996-2002 Z3 Roadster/Coupe including 1.9, 2.3, 2.3, 2.5, 2.8 & 3.0 (no M)

Show More Show Less

OEM Lemforder Front Control Arm - Left - E36, Z3
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#:3634
Part#: 31121140957
In Stock
$ 181.99

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

$ 98.90 USD
Free Shipping
$ 98.90 USD
Free Shipping

This E36 or Z3 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.

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. 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. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.

We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.

OEM Lemförder is an engineering company that focuses on high-quality, precision manufacturing of critical suspension and steering components. Providing exceptionally high quality parts directly to BMW, as well as 50+ other big name automotive companies, such as Mercedes and Audi, their history of reliability and variety of offered parts makes them one of the biggest names for a go-to OEM parts provider. Lemförder parts place an important emphasis on design, production, and assembly, ensuring maximum reliability. They even coat all parts possible with corrosion protection for extended longevity.

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!


This item fits the following BMWs:
1992-1999 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic
1997-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i

Show More Show Less

Race Polyurethane Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Set, Non Adjustable - E10...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex Black Series - Corporate Logo
T#:376482
Part#: PFR5-306BX4
Ships in 1 Business Day
$ 198.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 198.99 USD
Free Shipping

Trailing 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. 


 

Show More Show Less
Lemforder Front Upper Control Arm - F01, F02, F06, F07, F10, F12, F13...
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#:592239
Part#: 31126775967
Ships in 1 Business Day
$ 207.02 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
Replace your worn control arms
SPL Titanium Series Front Lower Control Arms - BMW F22/23 F3X RWD ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
SPL Parts - Corporate Logo
T#:34885422
Part#: SPLFLCAF3X
Ships in 1 Business Day
10% off MSRP $ 799.00

MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

$ 719.00 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
10% off MSRP
$ 799.00

MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

$ 719.00 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

The SPL BMW F2X/F3X Front Lower Control Arms (FLCA) provide roll center, camber, and track width adjustment for the rear wheel drive (RWD) F2X/F3X BMWs while eliminating bushing deflection resulting in sharpened steering response and driving precision.

Negative Camber Benefits

The ability to run more negative camber greatly improves the peak lateral grip available. Adding negative camber results in the tire having an optimal contact patch as the body rolls due to cornering forces. This is especially important with better tires and a must-have for anyone looking to prevent excessive outer shoulder wear (and heating) on their tires due to a lack of camber.

Wider Front Track Width Benefits

Further handling improvements can be had by increasing the front track width from the factory 60.5" (F3X) or 59.9" (F2X) to be closer to the M3's 62.2". If you applied the M3's width to the M340i it would reduce the outer front tire loading by roughly 20 lbs and apply it to the inner front tire. The result would be greater peak grip (~0.04G), improved stability, and faster lap times.

Roll Center Correction Benefits

Lowering the F2X/F3X results in a greater distance between the front roll center and the center of gravity. This acts like a longer lever, creating more body roll, bumpsteer, and requiring additional static camber angle to maintain the same handling. The SPL front lower control arms allow the roll center to be corrected for a wide range of ride heights to improve handling and stability.

The lower control arms come with a ride height sensor bracket to maintain the factory ride height sensor location, regardless of length of the arm to keep those finicky BMW chassis electronics happy.

Benefits

Adjustable Camber, Roll Center, and Track Width

Eliminates Bushing Deflection

Improved Tire Life with Ideal Camber Settings

Lightweight, High-Strength Construction

Stackable 304SS Roll Center Spacers in 1/8" and 1/4" Sizes

US Made, PTFE Lined FK Rod Ends 

Materials

6061-T6 aluminum black anodized arm, clamps, and spacers

4130 CrMo electroless nickel-plated double adjuster

Ti6Al4V titanium socket head cap screws

304 stainless steel roll center and knuckle spacers

5/8" 4140 CrMo stud

FK PTFE-lined spherical bearings (F1 spec, self-cleaning)

Suitable for all uses, from daily driver to race car.

Show More Show Less