Front control arm replacement on a Honda Accord generally costs about $400 to $900 per arm in the United States, depending on parts and labor. On average, expect around $600. This range covers common scenarios and includes parts, labor, and a wheel alignment if needed.
How the price is built
The total you pay is driven by three main factors: the part you choose, the shop’s labor rate and time, and any required follow-up services such as an alignment or replacement of related components.
Costs break down into the following components:
- Parts: A lower control arm (the usual replacement) can range from about $60 to $350 depending on whether you choose aftermarket parts, OEM (dealer) parts, or a complete arm assembly with a pre-attached ball joint.
- Labor: Front suspension work typically requires 1 to 3 hours of labor, with shop rates commonly between $75 and $150 per hour, depending on location and shop level.
- Additional services: After installation, a front-end alignment is often needed and costs about $75 to $120. If related components (ball joints, bushings, sway-bar links) are worn and replaced at the same time, that can add to the price.
Costs can vary by model year, trim, and whether you replace just the arm or the entire arm assembly with integrated ball joints. Always ask for a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, and alignment.
Typical total ranges by scenario
The following examples illustrate common price ranges you might see in practice. They reflect typical U.S. pricing from modern repair shops and dealers as of 2024–2026; your local prices may differ.
- Budget scenario (aftermarket parts, independent shop, standard arm): Parts $60–$180; Labor $100–$250; Alignment $75–$100; Total per arm: roughly $235–$530.
- Mid-range scenario (OE-equivalent parts, reputable shop): Parts $150–$350; Labor $150–$320; Alignment $80–$120; Total per arm: roughly $380–$790.
- Premium/dealer scenario (OEM parts, dealer service, possible ball-joint included): Parts $250–$450; Labor $200–$380; Alignment $85–$120; Total per arm: roughly $535–$950.
Note: If the lower control arm includes the ball joint and that joint wears out soon after, you may be looking at elevated costs due to extra labor and parts; some shops offer multi-arm discounts if both sides need work at once.
Arm type and model-year considerations
Lower vs upper control arms
Honda Accords most commonly require replacement of the lower control arm on the front suspension. Upper control arms are less frequently replaced but may be included with certain OE kits. Costs are typically similar, but an arm with a pre-installed ball joint can be pricier.
Model-year and trim impact
Newer Accords with updated suspension designs or higher-trim models may use different part numbers, which can affect price. The majority of cost differences come from OEM vs aftermarket parts and whether the job includes an alignment or additional components.
Tips to save money and ensure a good fix
Shop around for several estimates, ask for itemized quotes, and consider whether you need OEM parts or if reputable aftermarket parts will suffice. Also, check whether a shop can perform the alignment on the same day to avoid a second visit.
- Get written estimates from at least three shops, including parts and labor.
- Ask if you can replace only the worn arm on one side now and plan for the other side later, or replace both sides if they both show wear, which can reduce per-arm cost.
- Consider a qualified independent shop vs a dealership; the difference in price can be significant.
In the end, most drivers pay in the range of a few hundred to under a thousand dollars per arm, depending on choices. If the mechanic finds multiple issues, like a failing ball joint or worn bushings, addressing them in one visit can save money over time by reducing future repair trips.
Summary
Replacing a control arm on a Honda Accord typically costs between about $400 and $900 per arm in the United States, with average numbers around $600. The final price depends on whether you use aftermarket versus OEM parts, the labor rate, whether an alignment is needed, and whether related parts like ball joints or bushings are replaced at the same time. Always obtain an itemized estimate and consider getting multiple quotes to compare pricing and warranty terms.