laxman1100

Hi, my mechanic says I need (four) new upper control arms; bushings are cracking. Total cost is around $1200; $225/arm and $350 labor.

A few questions:
1. Does that sound reasonable?
2. What are the best control arms on the market for daily spirited driving?

Thanks in advance

petoria

Had the same rough estimate. Go to JHM or ECS tuning to pick up your parts. Then have it installed. I saved a lot of money going this route. The dealership was literally trying to slit my throat. RS4 ownership isn't cheap, but finding ways to cut costs while still maintaining strong performance helps.

laxman1100

Thanks, I think I'm going with the 034 adjustable arms...I have Ohlin Sport suspension and I think these will be a perfect match.

Kirby2112

Laxman, just curious, how many miles on the car where the bushings are failing? I fear mine may be heading that direction. What did you hear/feel that indicated you wanted the mechanic to check them out?

gibsonl

I just found out one of mine are cracked and I'm at 56k miles. My car probably gets more abuse than most though bc of the occasional track use

RS4Ship

I posted recently about installing the full 034 Density kit, uppers and lowers including tie rod ends. It sucks but it's possible to DIY if want to save 800 bucks or so. Took me almost a full day without a lift.

Only my uppers were failing, but I figured while I had it all apart I would do everything. It's worth considering. I noticed a big improvement with mine, but that's probably because my old bushings were pretty shot at 49k miles.

JuniorARA

For what its worth I would consider getting the Stern over the 034. It is easier to adjust based on the design.

One of the guys at the shop I take my car to has the 034 and he said that the Sterns were much better then the after he installed them on my car. To the point where he bought a set of Sterns.