Non bump Ford suspention issue

[ContryboyFE]

I've looked elsewhere on the internet & have come up with nothing useful. We have an 05 Expedition. I took it to the local dealer for an oil change yesterday. (They were the cheapest.) They told me my right rear control arm was bad & it would cost $550 to replace it. That is the part only. Labor will be extra.

Here is where I am getting tripped up with their diagnosis.

I have worked on a lot of different cars with a lot of different issues. I have changed a lot of ball joints & suspension parts on cars I have abused. BUT I have never heard of an entire control arm being bad. Auto zone,OReilies, Rock Auto, & NAPA all have the bushing that act as the rear ball joint. So if I can replace the bushing/ball joint WHY do I have to replace the entire arm.

[72customF]

Expedition control arms are prone to rotting out. Visually inspect it yourself and see if they're rotten or just need new bushings. Ebay believe it or not has after market control arms that are far beefier, powder coated for durability, and that cost much less than what ford charges for oem. Look on any Expedition Forum... control arm rot is a frequent occurrence. Hope this helps.

Mike.

[ContryboyFE]

Was not aware of that!?! Thanks!

IF its a complete replacement job is it something that would be in the scope of a shade tree mechanic like me. I've done ball joints & shocks even replaced a rear axial. We are all do it ourselfers here. -IF Possible-

[ContryboyFE]

Well I had a shop in town look at it. I told him the whole story. He took it in put it on the lift SHOWED me what was wrong & quoted me a price several hundred less than the dealer wanted for the part alone. He said it is drivable BUT... It will wear the tire out prematurely.
It was a bushing. The actual arm is fine.

[72customF]

Sweet!