Most owners pay about $350 to $900 per control arm installed, including parts and labor; expect higher costs for OEM parts and for the upper arm, and lower costs with aftermarket parts or multiple arms in one job.
Control arms are a key part of the Honda Pilot's front suspension. When they wear out or develop a damaged ball joint, they can cause handling issues, clunks, and uneven tire wear. The price you see on a quote reflects the arm type (upper or lower), the parts choice (OEM vs aftermarket), labor rates in your area, and whether an alignment is needed after installation. This article outlines typical pricing and the main factors that drive the final bill.
What affects the price
Costs break down into several components that can vary by location, shop, and part choice.
- Parts cost: You can choose OEM (dealer) parts, which are more expensive but guaranteed to match the original, or aftermarket parts, which are less expensive. The installed price for a typical front lower control arm ranges roughly from $300 to $650 for aftermarket parts and $450 to $900 for OEM parts.
- Labor cost: Labor rates vary by region and shop. Expect around 1.5 to 3 hours of labor for a single control arm on most Pilot front suspensions, with typical shop rates between $75 and $150 per hour.
- Alignment: An alignment is almost always needed after replacing control arms, adding roughly $75 to $150 to the bill.
In many cases, the biggest drivers of price are the part choice and the labor rate in your area. A final quote will reflect those variables plus any shop fees, disposal charges, and taxes.
Estimated price ranges by arm type and part choice
The following ranges reflect installed cost for a single control arm (parts plus labor) as commonly quoted by independent repair shops and dealerships in the United States in 2024–2025. Prices may vary by region and vehicle condition.
- Front lower control arm (aftermarket parts, installed): typically $300–$650
- Front lower control arm (OEM dealer parts, installed): typically $450–$900
- Front upper control arm (aftermarket parts, installed): typically $350–$750
- Front upper control arm (OEM dealer parts, installed): typically $600–$1100
Note: Replacing both arms on the same axle or both sides simultaneously can affect total labor time and may qualify for bulk labor discounts at some shops. Always ask for a written, itemized estimate before work begins.
DIY considerations
Replacing a control arm is a moderately advanced job that requires proper tools, a jack and stands, and may need a ball joint press or pickle fork. If you’re not experienced with suspension work, it’s best left to a professional to avoid safety risks and potential misalignment.
How to get an exact quote
To obtain an accurate price for your specific Honda Pilot, contact several local repair shops or your dealer for a written estimate. Provide your vehicle’s year, trim, and whether you want OEM or aftermarket parts. Also ask about alignment, taxes, disposal fees, and any potential added costs.
Conclusion: For most drivers, budget about $350–$900 per arm installed, with OEM parts at the upper end and aftermarket parts at the lower end. A precise quote depends on your location, the exact arm in question, and whether you replace one arm or both on the front axle.
Summary
Replacing a control arm on a Honda Pilot typically costs between $350 and $900 per arm installed, with variations for upper versus lower arms and OEM versus aftermarket parts. Expect additional charges for labor, alignment, and tax, and shop around for multiple quotes to compare. Proper installation and subsequent alignment are essential for safe handling and tire wear.