Typically, you should budget roughly $300–$800 per control arm for a 2006 Honda CR-V, depending on whether you’re replacing the front lower or upper arm, the type of part (aftermarket vs. OEM), and your local labor rates. Real-time quotes from local shops will give you the precise number.
Understanding the question in more detail, the 2006 CR‑V’s suspension uses control arms to connect the steering knuckle to the vehicle frame. The most common repair is the front lower control arm with a ball joint, but front upper control arms are also replaced in some cases. Replacing a control arm often requires a wheel alignment afterward to ensure proper handling and tire wear. Prices vary by region and by whether the vehicle owner chooses aftermarket or OEM (factory original) parts.
What you’re replacing on a 2006 CR-V
In most 2006 CR‑Vs, the front suspension is the part most likely to need replacement. The lower control arm with a ball joint is the frequent target due to wear on bushings and ball joints; the upper control arm is less commonly replaced but can be involved in certain failures. Rear suspension on this model uses different arms and is generally less frequently serviced for control-arm failures.
Cost breakdown by arm type
Front lower control arm
The following estimates reflect typical costs in the United States for 2024–2026, including parts and labor. They assume an arm with an integrated ball joint and that an alignment is performed after the job.
- Parts (aftermarket): $40–$180 per arm
- Parts (OEM): $120–$350 per arm
- Labor: $150–$350 per arm
- Wheel alignment: $80–$120
Conclusion: The installed cost for a front lower control arm commonly ranges from about $270 to $650 with aftermarket parts, and roughly $380 to $870 with OEM parts, depending on labor rates and whether the shop bundles the alignment with the replacement.
Front upper control arm
Upper control arms are typically more expensive than the lower arms due to part design and availability. The same factors—aftermarket vs. OEM and regional labor rates—apply.
- Parts (aftermarket): $60–$200 per arm
- Parts (OEM): $150–$420 per arm
- Labor: $180–$420 per arm
- Wheel alignment: $80–$120
Conclusion: For a front upper control arm, installed costs generally run from about $320 to $740 with aftermarket parts, and roughly $430 to $960 with OEM parts, depending on labor rates and whether alignment is included.
Other costs and considerations
Several factors can push the total price higher or lower, and it’s important to plan for these when budgeting.
- Labor rates vary by region and shop; urban or dealership shops tend to be more expensive than independent shops.
- OEM parts are typically more expensive than aftermarket parts but may offer a longer warranty or better fitment for some buyers.
- The need for additional work (e.g., replacing mounting bolts, bushings, or related components) can increase labor time and parts costs.
- Some shops offer bundled pricing if you replace both arms on one axle or both sides of the vehicle.
Note: If the ball joint is bad but the arm itself is still structurally sound, many shops will replace just the ball joint instead of the entire arm, which can be cheaper but is not always possible depending on the design of the arm on that model year.
How to get a precise quote
- Call several shops (independent mechanics and dealerships) and request a written estimate for parts (specify aftermarket vs OEM) and labor for the exact arm type (front lower vs front upper).
- Ask whether the estimate includes a wheel alignment and any applicable disposal or shop supply fees.
- Provide your vehicle’s VIN if possible to verify part compatibility and available warranties.
When gathering quotes, consider the total value: lower upfront cost may come with shorter part warranty or higher long-term maintenance risk, while OEM parts often carry longer warranties but higher initial price.
Summary
For a 2006 Honda CR-V, replacing a front control arm typically costs between a few hundred and nearly a thousand dollars per arm, depending on whether you’re replacing the lower or upper arm, the choice of aftermarket vs OEM parts, and local labor rates. Alignments are usually a necessary extra, and replacing both sides or upgrading multiple components can influence pricing. Getting multiple, itemized quotes will help you verify the best value and ensure the repair aligns with your vehicle’s needs and warranty expectations.