Home > DIY > CLK-Class > W209 (2003-2009) > DIY: How to Replace the Front Lower Rearward Control Arm on Mercedes W211 E-Class and C219 CLS-Class

DIY: How to Replace the Front Lower Rearward Control Arm on Mercedes W211 E-Class and C219 CLS-Class

Step-by-step DIY instructions with pictures on replacing the Front Lower (Rearward) Control Arms with Bushings. These instructions apply to Rear Wheel Drive W211 E-Class and C219 CLS-Class models only.
w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_81

 Parts Needed:

Application:

  • E-Class (E320, E350, E550, E63)  Years: 2003-2009
  • CLS Class (CLS550, CLS63 AMG, CLS 500) Years: 2005-2010

Special Tools Needed: 

IMPORTANT

Make sure to jack up your car before you begin work safely. 

Step-by-step instructions. 

  • Loosen the lug nuts before you raise the car.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_45
  • Raise the car. Make sure to use jack stands and not only just a jack.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_05
  • Remove the front wheel.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_55
  • Remove the wheel speed sensor from the steering knuckle. All you need to do is remove the bolt on the sensor and unclip the wire from the plastic holder.
  • Detach the strut from the control arm by removing the bolt that holds it in place. If you have AIRMATIC suspension, depressurize the front AIRMATIC strut using a compatible diagnostic scanner like the YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro. When you reinstall this bolt, tighten it to 165 Nm.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_17
  • Remove the bolts that attach the control arm to the subframe/front axle carrier. Hold the bolt from the rear with an E-torx socket while loosening the nut.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_26
  • Now the control arm should be able to move down. Next, you need to remove it from the steering knuckle. This is easier now that the control arm can move freely.w211_e320_e500_front_control_arm_diy_24
  • Reinstall in reverse order. Before final tightening of the control arm mounting fasteners, support the suspension at normal ride height. Do not final tighten the rubber bushing with the suspension hanging. Note torque specifications shown below.

NOTE: Your alignment may be off because you will be removing the slackening nut that holds the control arm to the frame. Perform a wheel alignment check after replacing the control arm and correct the alignment as needed.

Torque Specifications

  • Bolt mounting the strut to the control arm: 165 Nm
  • Stabilizer bar bolt: 130 Nm
  • Front axle speed sensor: 25 Nm
  • Self-locking nut to the steering knuckle: 50 Nm
  • Bolt that connects the control arm to the front subframe: 80 Nm

Part numbers (these do not apply to 4MATIC, only RWD):

  • Front Lower Control Arm  / Thrust Arm with bushings and ball joints.
    LEFT: 2113304311
    Right: 2113304411
  • Ball joints for Front lower Control Arm  220 33307 27
    220 333 07 27 ; 2203330727 ; 2203330227  220 333 02 27 ; A211 330 04 35 ; A2203330727 2113300435 ; 211 330 0435 ; 2203330127;A2113300425
    NOTE: The ball joints are the same for the left and right.

If your vehicle has AIRMATIC, depressurize the front air strut with a compatible full system diagnostic scanner before disconnecting it. The YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro supports full system diagnostics, bidirectional tests, and service functions with no subscription. Check coverage for your exact vehicle before running the AIRMATIC function.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All rights reserved Notice: CLOUD