Subaru control arm bushing replacement typically costs between $250 and $650, depending on your model, labor rates, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. Understanding what drives this price—parts quality, shop fees, and alignment needs—helps you budget accurately and decide if it’s worth combining this job with other suspension repairs to save on labor.

Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost guide

If your Subaru has started to feel loose in the steering, clunky over bumps, or just “not right” in corners, there’s a good chance the control arm bushings are worn out. It’s one of those repairs that sounds scary and expensive, especially if you have not dealt with suspension work before.

The good news? You’re not alone, and it’s a very common repair on many Subaru models. The bad news? Ignoring it can get expensive, fast. Worn bushings can chew up tires, stress other suspension parts, and make your car less safe to drive.

This Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost guide will walk you through what these bushings do, how to spot problems, what you can expect to pay, and how to save money without cutting corners. Think of it like advice from a friend who has already gone through the same repair.

Key Takeaways

• Average cost: Expect $250–$650 for Subaru control arm bushing replacement, parts and labor included.
• Labor dominates price: Most of the bill is labor, especially on rusted or high-mileage Subarus.
• Replace in pairs: Always replace bushings on both sides to maintain even handling and tire wear.
• Symptoms matter: Clunks, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear signal worn control arm bushings.
• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM costs more but offers factory feel; polyurethane upgrades improve performance and longevity.
• Get multiple quotes: Compare independent shops and dealers; labor rates vary widely by region.
• Align after replacement: Always budget for a four-wheel alignment after control arm bushing work.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

How much does Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost on average?

The average Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost typically ranges from $250 to $600 per axle, depending on your model, labor rates, and parts quality.

What affects the Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost?

Your Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost is mainly influenced by local labor rates, OEM vs aftermarket parts, and whether other suspension components need work at the same time.

Is it cheaper to replace just the bushings or the whole control arm on a Subaru?

Replacing only the bushings can lower the Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost, but many shops recommend complete control arms if the originals are worn or rusted to save on future labor.

Can I drive with bad control arm bushings on my Subaru to avoid the cost?

You can sometimes drive for a short period, but delaying Subaru control arm bushing replacement can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and higher repair costs later.

Does Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost more at a dealership?

Dealerships usually charge higher labor rates and use OEM parts, so your Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost is often higher than at an independent Subaru specialist.

What control arm bushings do on a Subaru

Simple explanation of control arm bushings

Control arm bushings sit between the control arm and the frame or subframe of your Subaru. They are made of rubber or rubber-like material. Their job is simple:

• Allow the control arm to move up and down
• Keep the wheel in the right place front to back
• Absorb vibration and road shock

When they are in good shape, the car feels tight and stable. The steering is predictable. You hit a bump and the car settles quickly.

Why they wear out on Subarus

Subarus are often driven in tough conditions. Snow, salt, gravel roads, and potholes are normal for many owners. All of that is hard on rubber parts. Over time, control arm bushings can:

• Crack from age and heat
• Soften and deform from oil or fluid leaks
• Split or tear from big impacts and rough roads

Some Subaru models are more prone to bushing wear, especially older Outbacks, Foresters, and Imprezas that see winter and off-road use. If you keep your car a long time, you will likely deal with this repair at least once.

How worn bushings affect driving

Once the bushings start to fail, the control arm can move more than it should. That can cause:

• Clunking noise when you brake or go over bumps
• Steering that feels vague or delayed
• Car pulling to one side under braking
• Uneven tire wear on the inside or outside edge
• Vibration in the steering wheel at speed

These are not just annoying. They can affect safety, braking, and tire life. That is why understanding Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost is important. It helps you plan the repair before it becomes a bigger problem.

Typical Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost

Average price range

The cost to replace control arm bushings on a Subaru varies by model, year, and where you live. In most cases, you can expect:

• Parts only (bushings): $40–$150 per axle
• Labor only (pressing bushings in/out): $200–$450 per axle
• Total Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost: $250–$600 per axle at a typical shop

Some shops will replace the entire control arm with bushings pre-installed. That can change the price quite a bit.

Bushings only vs complete control arms

You will often be given two options:

• Replace bushings only (cheaper parts, more labor)
• Replace full control arms (more expensive parts, less labor)

Here is a rough breakdown of Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost for both approaches:

Option	Parts cost (per axle)	Labor cost (per axle)	Typical total (per axle)	Notes
Bushings only (OEM-style)	$40–$120	$250–$450	$290–$570	More press work, good if arms are still solid
Complete control arms (OEM)	$250–$600	$150–$300	$400–$900	Less labor, best if ball joints or arms are worn
Complete control arms (aftermarket)	$160–$400	$150–$300	$310–$700	Cheaper, quality varies by brand

Prices above are typical shop prices in the U.S. Actual Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost can be higher in big cities and lower in rural areas.

Front vs rear control arm bushings

Most people deal with front control arm bushings first. They tend to wear faster and are more noticeable. Rear bushings can also fail, but the symptoms are sometimes softer and harder to feel.

• Front bushings: more common, often $250–$600 per axle
• Rear bushings / lateral links: often $300–$700 per axle if replaced

Many owners choose to do both sides (left and right) at the same time so the car stays balanced.

What affects Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost

Model, year, and design differences

Not all Subarus are built the same. Some have simple front control arms. Others have more complex multi-link setups. That changes the time and parts needed.

• Older Impreza / Forester / Outback: simpler arms, moderate labor
• Newer Outback / Legacy / Ascent: more complex assemblies, sometimes higher labor
• WRX / STI: sportier setups, some owners choose upgraded bushings

For example, a basic Impreza may be at the lower end of Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost, while a newer Outback with rusted bolts can be at the high end due to extra time.

Rust, seized bolts, and extra work

This is the part no one wants to hear, but it matters. If you live where roads are salted in winter, bolts and bushings can seize into the control arms and subframe. That can add:

• Extra labor to cut or heat bolts
• New hardware kits
• Sometimes new control arms if bolts cannot be saved

Shops often cannot predict this until they start the job. So the estimate for Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost may have a note like “plus extra if bolts are seized.” It is not a scam. It is just the reality of older cars in rusty areas.

OEM vs aftermarket parts

You will likely be asked if you want OEM (Subaru) parts or aftermarket. Each has pros and cons:

• OEM bushings / arms: usually best fit and feel, more expensive
• Aftermarket standard: cheaper, quality depends on brand
• Polyurethane / performance bushings: sharper feel, may add noise or harshness

If you just want your Subaru to ride like stock, OEM or a trusted aftermarket brand is usually the best value. If a shop offers a price that seems much lower than average Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost, ask what brand they are using.

Dealer vs independent shop vs DIY

Where you go makes a big difference in cost:

• Dealer: higher labor rate, OEM parts, very familiar with Subaru issues
• Independent Subaru specialist: often lower labor rate, still very experienced
• General independent shop: can be fine, but ask about Subaru experience
• DIY at home: lowest parts cost, but needs tools and time

A dealer might quote $600–$900 for a full front setup with arms. A good independent shop might be in the $400–$700 range for a similar job. DIY could be under $300 if you already have tools, but it is not a beginner job.

What is included in a control arm bushing job

Typical steps a shop will take

Knowing what the job involves helps you understand why Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost is what it is. A typical front bushing job goes like this:

• Lift the car and remove the front wheels
• Disconnect sway bar links or other attached parts
• Unbolt the control arm from the subframe and knuckle
• Press or cut out the old bushings
• Press in new bushings or install new control arms
• Reinstall everything with new hardware if needed
• Torque all bolts to spec with the suspension loaded

On some Subarus, the rear bushings are large “compliance” bushings that take more effort to remove and install. That can add time and cost.

Wheel alignment after replacement

After any suspension work, alignment is important. New bushings can change the angle of the wheels. Most shops will either:

• Include a four-wheel alignment in the quote
• Recommend you schedule one right after the repair

A typical alignment adds $90–$160. When you look at Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost, check if alignment is included. If not, budget for it. Skipping alignment can ruin new tires in a short time.

Related parts often replaced together

It is common to find other worn parts while doing bushings. A shop might recommend adding:

• Ball joints (if not part of the control arm)
• Sway bar links and bushings
• Outer tie rod ends
• Control arm bolts and hardware

This can raise the total bill, but it can also save you from paying labor twice. If parts are already off the car, adding a small part may only add a bit of time. Ask the shop to separate the base Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost from any extra items so you can decide.

Real-world examples and money-saving tips

Example cost scenarios

Here are a few sample scenarios to give you a feel for Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost in real life. These are ballpark numbers, not quotes.

Example 1: 2012 Subaru Outback, front bushings only, no rust

• OEM-style bushings: $90
• Labor: 3.0 hours at $130/hour = $390
• Alignment: $120
• Total: about $600

Example 2: 2010 Forester, full front control arms (aftermarket), some rust

• Aftermarket control arms pair: $260
• Labor: 2.5 hours at $110/hour = $275
• Extra hardware and rust work: $60
• Alignment: $110
• Total: about $705

Example 3: 2015 WRX, performance bushings, DIY

• Polyurethane bushing kit: $160
• Rent press and tools: $60
• Shop alignment: $130
• Your time: a full weekend and some frustration
• Total cash outlay: about $350

These examples show how Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost can swing widely based on parts choice, rust, and whether you pay for labor.

How to get a fair estimate

To avoid surprises, here are a few tips when calling shops:

• Give your exact year, model, engine, and trim
• Say whether you want bushings only or full control arms
• Ask if the quote includes alignment
• Ask what brand of parts they use
• Ask if there could be extra charges for rusted bolts

Write down the details. That way you can compare Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost between shops on an apples-to-apples basis.

Ways to save money without cutting corners

You do not have to choose the most expensive option to do the job right. Some smart ways to save:

• Use a trusted independent Subaru specialist instead of a dealer
• Replace both sides at once to avoid paying for alignment twice
• Buy quality aftermarket arms if OEM prices are very high
• Fix leaks that drip on bushings so they last longer
• Rotate tires and align regularly to reduce stress on suspension

Also, do not wait too long. When bushings get very bad, they can cause extra wear on tires and other parts. That can make the real Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost higher in the long run.

Should you DIY or pay a shop?

DIY difficulty level

If you enjoy working on cars, you might wonder if you can handle this at home. The honest answer: it depends.

Replacing full control arms is much easier than pressing bushings in and out. On many Subarus, a motivated DIY owner with basic tools, a jack, jack stands, and patience can swap control arms in a day.

Pressing bushings is tougher. You may need:

• A hydraulic press or heavy-duty bushing tool
• Heat, penetrating oil, and sometimes cutting tools
• Good understanding of safe jacking and support points

If you have never done suspension work, this might not be the best first project. A mistake can affect handling and safety.

When DIY makes sense

DIY can be worth it when:

• You already have many of the tools
• You are comfortable working under the car
• You are replacing full control arms, not just bushings
• You have access to a shop for alignment afterward

In that case, you can cut your Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost in half or more, paying mainly for parts and alignment.

When to leave it to the pros

Paying a shop is usually the better call when:

• Your car is very rusty
• You do not have safe lifting equipment
• You are not comfortable dealing with seized bolts
• You need the car back quickly and reliably

Remember, a good shop does this type of work all the time. They know the common Subaru issues and tricks. Sometimes paying for that experience is cheaper than fighting with it in your driveway for days.

Conclusion: planning your Subaru control arm bushing repair

Worn control arm bushings are one of those repairs that almost every long-term Subaru owner faces. The symptoms can creep up slowly. A little clunk here, a bit of vague steering there. Then one day you realize the car just does not feel safe or solid anymore.

By understanding typical Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost, you can plan ahead. Most owners will see a range of about $250–$600 per axle for a standard job, with more if you add full control arms, deal with heavy rust, or go through a dealer. The key is to get clear, detailed estimates, choose quality parts, and factor in alignment.

If you act early, you protect your tires, improve safety, and bring back that planted Subaru feel you bought the car for in the first place. Whether you tackle it yourself or hand it off to a trusted shop, dealing with worn bushings is an investment in keeping your Subaru driving like it should for many more years and miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost on average?

For most Subaru models, control arm bushing replacement typically costs between $250 and $600 per axle, parts and labor included. The exact price depends on your model, local labor rates, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket bushings.

What factors affect Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost?

The main cost factors are your specific Subaru model, the type and brand of bushings (OEM vs aftermarket), and labor rates at your shop or dealership. Additional suspension work, alignment, or rusted hardware can also increase the final bill.

Is it cheaper to replace just the bushings or the whole control arm on a Subaru?

Replacing only the bushings is usually cheaper in parts but can be more labor-intensive, sometimes balancing out the savings. Many shops recommend replacing the entire control arm assembly if it’s worn or if labor to press bushings in and out is high.

Can I drive with bad control arm bushings on my Subaru, or should I replace them right away?

You can sometimes drive for a short period with worn bushings, but it’s not recommended because it can cause poor handling, uneven tire wear, and additional suspension damage. Replacing them promptly is safer and often cheaper in the long run.

Does Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost include a wheel alignment?

Not always—some shops include alignment in the quote, while others charge it separately. Because suspension geometry can change when control arms are disturbed, a wheel alignment is usually recommended after bushing replacement.

Can I reduce my Subaru control arm bushing replacement cost by doing it myself?

DIY replacement can save on labor, but you’ll need the right tools, including a press or specialty tools to remove and install bushings. If you’re not experienced with suspension work, an incorrect installation can lead to safety issues and extra repair costs later.