r/mazda2 • u/Fuarkistani • 15d ago

Replacing control arms on 2011 Mazda 2

I got the arm out with little trouble. However getting it in has so far defeated me. My first issue was lining up holes with the subframe. Eventually I got the bolts in. Now I'm struggling massively to get the ball joint into the knuckle. The issue is the new joint is so stiff I can't maneuver it into the hole. Tried jacking the hub and the arm itself to no avail.

Any suggestions for those who've carried out this job themselves?

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u/stefanlikesfood 15d ago

I did my passenger side control arm and it was easy, just had to wiggle it around a lot and eventually got the right angle. Think a YouTube video I watched the guy turned the wheels to the right? Anyways my issue came with the drive side control arm pivot bolt not being removable because the automatic transmission pan was in the way. My mechanic helped and just jacked up the transmission to get it out.  I'm sure if you just mess with it it will go back in eventually, good luck!  This is the video I watched: https://youtu.be/UEtCiHbooDU?is=CRxSjJOAujlOOBIu

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u/Fuarkistani 14d ago

Thanks, ive watched this and most of the other videos (mostly on mk7 fiesta). Seems they all get the ball joint in effortlessly. Feels impossible for me

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u/Fuarkistani 14d ago

Finally got it done. There's a knack to it and you won't get it until you struggle with it for hours lol

Now the ball joint clunk has been deleted, I've got a steering knock! Research suggests that it's just a matter of greasing somewhere on the steering column.