Step by Step Guide to Installing Control Arms on a Maserati

When it comes to maintaining the perfect harmony of performance and luxury in a Maserati, few components are as vital as the control arms. These essential suspension elements connect the wheel hub to the frame of the vehicle and help manage both steering input and ride quality. If you're noticing uneven tire wear, clunking noises over bumps, or vague steering, it might be time to replace your control arms. Fortunately, with quality components from Exotic Parts Depot and a bit of mechanical know-how, this task can be performed confidently in your own garage. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to installing control arms on a Maserati.

Tools and Materials You Will Need:

• 

  Hydraulic jack and jack stands

• Torque wrench

• Socket and wrench set (metric sizes)

• Breaker bar

• Pry bar

• Rubber mallet

• Ball joint separator or pickle fork

• Penetrating oil

• Safety gloves and goggles

• New control arms from Exotic Parts Depot (specific to your Maserati model)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by parking your Maserati on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels. Wear proper safety gear including gloves and goggles. Make sure your workspace is well-lit and ventilated. Loosen the front lug nuts slightly before lifting the car.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

Using the hydraulic jack, lift the front of the car and secure it with jack stands at the manufacturer-recommended lift points. Remove the wheels to access the suspension components.

Step 3: Locate and Inspect the Control Arm

Once the wheel is off, you'll have a clear view of the lower control arm. Maseratis typically use both upper and lower control arms depending on the model. For this guide, we’ll focus on the lower control arm. Identify the mounting points: the ball joint connection to the steering knuckle, and the two bushing mounts connected to the subframe.

Step 4: Apply Penetrating Oil

Spray penetrating oil on all bolts, especially those at the ball joint and bushings. Let it sit for at least 10–15 minutes to help break up any corrosion or grime. This will make disassembly easier and reduce the risk of bolt snapping.

Step 5: Disconnect the Ball Joint

Use a socket and breaker bar to remove the nut securing the ball joint to the steering knuckle. Once the nut is off, use a ball joint separator or pickle fork to release the ball joint from the knuckle. A few taps with a rubber mallet may be needed to loosen the connection.

Step 6: Remove Control Arm Bolts

Next, remove the bolts connecting the control arm to the subframe. These are typically larger bolts that may require some force to loosen. Use your socket set and a breaker bar, and keep the control arm supported with one hand or a jack to prevent it from dropping suddenly.

Step 7: Remove the Old Control Arm

With all bolts removed, carefully slide out the old control arm. Take note of its orientation and any washers or spacers used—these will need to be reinstalled with the new part.

Step 8: Compare Old and New Parts

Before installing the new control arm from Exotic Parts Depot, compare it side-by-side with the old one. Ensure the mounting points, bushings, and ball joints align perfectly. The high-quality aftermarket control arms from Exotic Parts Depot are built to exact Maserati specifications and should match flawlessly.

Step 9: Install the New Control Arm

Position the new control arm into place. Start by loosely installing the bolts at the subframe mounting points, followed by connecting the ball joint to the steering knuckle. Tighten all bolts by hand first to ensure correct threading.

Step 10: Torque to Specification

Using your torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the Maserati factory specifications. It’s important not to overtighten or undertighten, as both can cause premature wear or failure.

Step 11: Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Vehicle

Once the control arms are installed and torqued down, reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts by hand. Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground and then torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 12: Alignment Check

Anytime suspension components are replaced, especially control arms, a professional alignment is highly recommended. This ensures your wheels are correctly angled, preventing premature tire wear and handling issues.

Replacing the control arms on a Maserati is a rewarding project that restores the car’s handling precision and ride comfort. By choosing premium aftermarket control arms from Exotic Parts Depot, you're not just saving money—you’re also investing in performance components engineered for the demands of Italian automotive excellence. Whether you drive a Ghibli, Levante, or Quattroporte, Exotic Parts Depot ensures every part fits and performs as expected. With this step-by-step guide, you now have the roadmap to perform this upgrade safely and effectively, keeping your Maserati running as beautifully as it looks.