x2. I totally recommend replacing whole arms! Had my control arms replaced...both joints had play. The bushing on both arms were cracked. One arm, the ball-joint was so loose it flexed in any direction without pulling back. The car will handle much better, and will take road bumps much nicer, less harsh bumps.

 

Agree with you on the pricing if it includes one, but under normal circumstances an alignment isn't needed. You're not affecting ride height, steering angles, etc., all you're doing is swapping in one fixed part with no adjustments for an identical part. You can also do a couple other arm/ball joint/bushing replacements without affecting alignment. Unless it was out to begin with, the car's alignment won't be out after the job. Note that I'm not saying it wouldn't necessarily be a good idea to do at that mileage.

 

BMW calls for an alignment anytime you do suspension. I Have replaced the bushings in many vehicles and if you're not swapping out tie rod ends your alignment will not be thrown out of spec. That price is ridiculous to replace front bushings alone. You can do the front and rear suspension arms with bushings with better than OEM components for that price yourself INCLUDING a KDS laser alignment. I did a DIY on the front a month or so ago.

 

What control arms did you use and from where? any DIY tips? thx.

 

I've done this job a number of times on E39 5ers and never did an alignment unless the tie rod ends were swapped.

 

+1 However, these are E60 equipped with Active Steering and Dynamic Drive so although I agree with you, it could throw the computer off a bit....even if temporarily. If you need it, you need it. If not then you dont.

OP - I posted a DIY on this in the DIY section.

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I just was told by the dealer that I need to replace my lower control arm bushings. I took it in because I felt a shake in the front end when I was going down a hill and I applied the brakes. It was a slight shake almost not noticeable but it was there. I also my steering wheel is slightly turned to the right when I go straight. If this is a control arm problem could someone point me to a DIY for the repair?

 

Replacing the thrust rods might or might not fix the shaking when braking (could be warped brake discs). Replacing the thrust rods and/or control arms will not straighten the steering wheel...you need an alignment.

 

Just had the brakes done. They replaced the rotors. The dealer said the steering wheel is off because of the bushings.