2014 - 2018 Mazda 3 Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint Replacement with Torque Specs - 3rd gen Mazda3

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide for replacing the lower control arm and ball joint on a 2014 to 2018 Mazda 3. Following these steps will help you perform the task safely and effectively, ensuring that your vehicle’s suspension system remains in optimal condition.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Parts

Before starting the replacement process, make sure you have all required tools and replacement parts:

Tools Needed

• 19mm socket or breaker bar
• 1/2" impact wrench
• 14mm deep socket
• 14mm ratcheting wrench or box end wrench
• Pry bar
• Mallet
• Jack and jack stands
• Torque wrench

Replacement Parts

• Lower control arm assembly
• Ball joints (ensure compatibility with the 2014-2018 Mazda 3)

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park the Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface.
2. Loosen Lug Nuts: Slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be working.
3. Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
4. Remove the Wheel: Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to expose the suspension components.

Step 3: Remove the Old Control Arm and Ball Joint

1. Locate the Control Arm: Identify the lower control arm and ball joint on the vehicle.
2. Remove the Ball Joint Retention Bolt: Using a 14mm socket, remove the pinch bolt and nut that secure the ball joint.
3. Detach the Ball Joint: Use a pry bar if necessary to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
4. Remove Control Arm Bolts:
   • Use a 19mm socket to remove the front lower control arm bolt (torque specs: 158-191 ft-lbs).
   • Remove the rear longer lower control arm bolt (torque specs: 101-126 ft-lbs) and the rear shorter lower control arm bolt (torque specs: 74-89 ft-lbs).
5. Take Out the Control Arm: Carefully remove the control arm from its mounting points.

Step 4: Install the New Control Arm and Ball Joint

1. Position the New Control Arm: Align the new control arm in place where the old one was removed.
2. Insert Control Arm Bolts:
   • Start by inserting the rear shorter bolt and tightening it to the specified torque (74-89 ft-lbs).
   • Then insert the rear longer bolt and tighten it (101-126 ft-lbs).
   • Finally, insert the front lower control arm bolt and tighten it (158-191 ft-lbs).
3. Attach the Ball Joint:
   • Position the ball joint into the steering knuckle and secure it with the retention bolt and nut (torque specs: 27-31 ft-lbs).
   • Ensure the ball joint is seated properly.

Step 5: Reassemble the Vehicle

1. Reinstall the Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
3. Tighten Lug Nuts: Once on the ground, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

Replacing the lower control arm and ball joint on a 2014-2018 Mazda 3 is manageable with the right tools and steps. Make sure to follow the torque specifications for all bolts to ensure safety and performance. After completing this project, consider checking other suspension components for wear and tear to maintain your vehicle's overall health.