2015–2020 Acura TLX
By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Nov 6, 2026
Save $727 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $900
Quick answer: Replace Control Arm on a 2015–2020 Acura TLX is rated Advanced and takes about 2-3 hours. You'll need 9 tools for this job, and parts cost about $173. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
The options below are alternatives for the same part — you only need to buy one. Pick the one that matches your year and engine.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Control Arm | — | $150.00 | |
| Flange Bolt (16 x 94) | — | $10.00 | |
| Self-Locking Nut (12 mm) | — | $5.00 | |
| Flange Bolt (14 x 50) | — | $8.00 | |
| Cotter pin (new) | — | — |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Compare the options above and order the one that matches your vehicle — you only need one.
Follow these steps carefully
Park on level ground, loosen the wheel lug nuts slightly, then raise the Acura TLX and support it on jack stands. Remove the wheel. Place a jack under the lower control arm or knuckle as needed to support spring load before unbolting ball joints or bushings.
Remove the cotter pin/nut and separate the ball joint from the knuckle with a pickle fork or ball-joint separator — protect the boot on parts you are reusing.
Remove the inner control-arm bushing bolts/nuts at the subframe. Lower the arm carefully out of the vehicle. Note bolt orientation and any washers or flags that must go back the same way.
Compare ball-joint taper, bushing style, and mounting holes to the old arm. Inspect the ball-joint boot for damage before install.
Position the new control arm, start all bolts by hand, reconnect the ball joint, and torque fasteners to spec. Fit the cotter pin.
I start every bolt by hand before the wrench comes out — I've cross-threaded a control-arm bolt powering it in, and extracting it was a miserable afternoon.
Reinstall the wheel, torque lug nuts in a star pattern, and lower the Acura TLX. Check for clunks on a short drive, then have a professional four-wheel alignment performed — control-arm work changes camber/caster.
I get the four-wheel alignment right after — control-arm work changes camber and caster, and I've seen tires chewed up within weeks from skipping it.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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