First the Rain - then the thunder

[MickRC3]

If you read my previous post about the plugged A/C drain you already know about the rain.

Well, the thunder is that I noticed an occasional squeal from the right front and I asked the dealer about it when I left the car Friday.
Today he calls me and says that
1) car is out of warranty by 3 months (less than 30K on a 2006)
2) noise is lower control arm bushings
3) they can only replace the entire control arm as a single part number
4) he wants $1000 for the job.

Smells like a con game to me. Since it's out of warranty and this repair is coming out of my pocket, I'm going to a mechanic I know to have the work done. I'm sure that the control arms don't have to be replaced when only the bushings are bad.

I've never dealt with this dealership before, but since the local guy was one of the Chrysler cuts, had to go there. Not gonna go back, thats for sure.

[RNCRUZR]

That's what I had to do. I think that replacing the entire control arm is a Chrysler con game. $1000 sounds about right. 2 control arms plus alignment cost met $1600.

[CREWZIN]

Looks like it's an epidemic of control arm bushings but there is a kit you can buy rather than replace the whole control arm. Here's others with the same problem...

2003 PT Crusier control arm bushings 19k miles - Topix

[mopar_man]

Originally Posted by MickRC3

I'm sure that the control arms don't have to be replaced when only the bushings are bad.

You're right. I just replaced the bushings on my control arms about a month ago. $35 Energy Suspension bushings from eBay, a few hours worth of work and a $40 alignment.

[DIYPTGUY]

I also experience a front end creak and grind. Did replacing only the bushings do the job for you? I definately dont have $1000 or $1600 to cough up for a whole new control arm..

[MickRC3]

Haven't taken it to my mechanic yet. Will do so in a few days and will update you on events.