Control arms are essential parts of any Jeep Wrangler. Good directional stability and better handling can really improve your vehicle’s control whatever the road condition is.
That said, a good set of control arms will help you reach any destination you want.
For this reason, it is crucial to replace this part of your vehicle regularly due to natural wear and tear.
Nevertheless, getting a hold of the best adjustable control arms for JK is not an easy task.
There are a lot of models available in the market, but not all of them will match your vehicle’s performance.
Well, worry no more because we are here to help. We listed the best models you can get your hands on.
Table of Contents
5 Best Adjustable Control Arms for JK Review
These are the best models in the market that will fit your JK. Be sure to check out each model and evaluate its pros and cons.
Detroit Axle 13pc Front and End Suspension Kit
This control arm kit from Detroit Axle comes with everything you need for a full control arm replacement. Top of the line materials were used to create each piece of this kit.
It comes with an upper control arm, both outer and inner tie rods plus lower ball joints. What more can you ask for?
Each piece of this kit is designed to meet OEM specifications. This means that it will meet your standards as well. And of course, it will match your car’s performance.
What you will like more about this product is that it is tested for impact. That is what you want in a control arm in the first place.
You want it to protect you and give you a smooth driving experience whatever the road condition is.
It also is tested for wear and tear. Detroit really made sure that this kit will be at your service for a long time.
In terms of price, you will be glad that this kit is really affordable. This truly is one of the best choices for you Jeep JK, but it will also fit 1991- 2001 Jeep Cherokee and 1991-1992 Jeep Comanche.
PROS
CONS
Rough Country Front Lower Adjustable Control Arms
If you are in search of a pair of control arms that will fit your Jeep Wrangler JK perfectly, then you should give this product a try.
This pair of control arms are designed to improve the handling of your lifted Jeep.
The arms themselves are made by Clevite, the leading producer of high-performance engine parts in the United States.
That said, you are sure to have a durable pair that will absorb all the impact.
What’s more, it also comes with factory style rubber bushings, which is the quality every car enthusiast is looking for.
Of course, being a product of Rough Country, this set also comes with X-Flex joints.
What do X-Flex joints mean? Well, they are greaseable joints that are 2.5 inches in diameter.
They allow impressive suspension with 20 degrees on the upper joint and 30 degrees on the lower joint.
All these qualities combined will make sure that it will give you a smooth and silent riding experience both in the streets and off-roads.
This pair is specifically designed and engineered to fit all JK Wranglers! Whether your vehicle model is two-door or four-door, and regardless of the trim package, this product will not let you down.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Jeep Lift Kit buying guide.
Rough Country Adjustable Control Arms Set
If you liked the previous model from Rough Country, you would like this one even more.
This set will fit 2007- 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The upper joints on this set can pivot up to 20 degrees while the lower joints can pivot up to 35 degrees.
The set includes both front upper and lower adjustable control arms and both rear upper and lower arms as well.
And because this product is from Rough Country, X-Flex joints are included. You can definitely do a complete arm replacement with this set.
This product, once installed in your Jeep, will give you increased off-road articulation.
It is fully greaseable, so you know you can give it the maintenance it deserves. Moreover, the X-Flex joints are adjustable to your liking.
All in all, this product will provide your JK Wrangler with more range, strength, and safety.
The massive body and huge threads will absorb all the impact and will give you a smooth driving experience.
This model will serve its purpose for a long time, thanks to the rebuildable joints. It makes it very easy to maintain and adjust.
With just a few quick twists, the joints of the control arms will be just as tight as the day you installed them!
PROS
CONS
Detroit Axle – 13pc Front Control Suspension Kit
Detroit Axle is one of the leading manufacturers of OE re-manufactured and new aftermarket auto parts.
For over 30 years, they have been providing the market reliable and affordable models, and this 13pc front suspension kit is no different.
So, what does the kit contain? For starters, this kit includes a 3 Groove Pitman Arm.
That said, make sure that your Jeep Wrangler does not use a 4 Groove Pitman Arm.
What else does this kit include? It comes with two front upper control arm and two front lower ball joints.
The rest of the kit makes it possible to complete a full control arm replacement.
Each piece of this kit is manufactured to meet original equipment standards. This ensures that it will do the job it is supposed to do.
In terms of price, this model is very affordable, considering the amount of product you get.
It also is very easy to install, and you can even do it on your own. It totally saves you a lot of bucks!
Aside from Jeep Wrangler, this unit can also fit a lot of models from Chevrolet, GMC, and Hummer. Moreover, the product weight is 22 lbs.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Mud Tires Review
Rough Country 1071 Lower Control Arms
Since 1986, Rough Country has been engineering top of the line automotive parts. Being in the business that long,
we know that every product from them will likely be a hit. Let’s see if the 1071 Control Arms can keep up with the company’s reputation.
If your goal is to improve the ride of your lifted Jeep, replacing your control arms with this product is a good way to upgrade.
This is specifically designed for Jeep Wranglers and will also fit Wrangler TJ, Cherokee and Comanche.
The control arms are engineered by Clevite, another manufacturer that every car enthusiast can rely on.
That said, you know that these control arms are reliable and heavy-duty.
What’s impressive about this product is the rubber bushings. This will allow you to experience a smooth ride. Who doesn’t want that?
With this model, you can give your Jeep Wrangler JK 4 inches of lift. No doubt that it will improve your ride through off-road or any terrain.
In terms of installation, it won’t take long. Six hours is all you need, so you can enjoy using this bad boy.
The price is also very affordable, perfect for those on a budget.
PROS
CONS
What to Look for Before Buying Control Arms?
If you are still hesitant as to which of the 5 models would be the best for you, do not worry.
There are still some factors to consider which will help you choose, and we listed them down for you.
Always Buy a Full Replacement Kit
Control arms are replaced due to wear and tear. Because of this, if a single control arm has shown signs of being worn out, chances are the other pair will soon need changing as well.
This is why it is recommended to replace them in pairs or do a full replacement. By doing this, you will experience a more balanced and smoother ride.
Price
Since control arms play a significant role in your vehicle, you don’t want to buy cheap models. You need something that will last you for years and years of use.
Material
Just like any car parts, you need to make sure the material used for your control arms is durable. In this case, it should be strong enough to withstand any terrain. Look for heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel or alloy.
Brand
A good brand is one you and your fellow car enthusiasts can trust. Rough Country and Detroit Axle are just a few of the brands you can rely on.
Performance
Performance is as important as the other benefits on this list. Look for a control arm that will match your car’s performance.
Ease of Installation
Try looking for a set or a pair that is easy to install, even if you are a novice in this matter. One that is complicated to set up will probably cost a lot if you let professionals handle it.
Bushing Quality
The bushing is what connects the control arms to the vehicle. That said, it is important to make sure of its quality. Try and look for a bushing that is made out of rubber.
Frequently Asked Questions
What signs should I look for to know that I need to replace my control arms?
The most common signs of wear and tear in your control arms include shaking and difficulty in changing directions.
You can also feel each bump in the road, even the little ones. If you feel these signs, go and check with your mechanic.
How long does it take to install Control Arms?
If you choose to get help from your local mechanic, it usually takes 6 hours to complete the job. If your vehicle is on the bigger side, it might take a little bit longer.
Can I replace the bushing of one of my control arms?
Yes, but since this job is quite delicate, it’s recommended that professionals should do it.
Can I install my control arms on my own?
Installing control arms is quite elementary, and you can surely do it on your own. Still, it is better if someone is there to help you as well.
Will I need to replace my stabilizer links as well?
Yes. It is recommended to replace your stabilizer links and control arms at the same time.
Final Words
There you have it! We hope you decided on which one of these is the best adjustable control arms for your JK. Good luck and drive safely!