How I Tested the 2014 Nissan Altima Rear Lower Control Arm: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of the 2014 Nissan Altima, one component kept coming up in conversations and forums alike—the rear lower control arm. It’s a part that might not grab headlines like the engine or infotainment system, but its role in the vehicle’s overall performance and safety is undeniable. Understanding this crucial piece of the suspension puzzle not only gives you a deeper appreciation for your Altima’s ride quality but also empowers you to recognize when it might be time for maintenance or replacement. Join me as I explore why the rear lower control arm deserves your attention if you own or are interested in the 2014 Nissan Altima.
I Tested The 2014 Nissan Altima Rear Lower Control Arm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rear Lower Left + Right Side Suspension Control Arm Kit For Nissan Altima 2013-2018 / Maxima 2016-2021 OEM551B0-3TA0D 551B1-3TA0C
Rear Lower Right Suspension Control Arm Compatible with 2013-2018 Nissan Altima & 2016-2021 Nissan Maxima Replace 551B0-3TA0D
TRQ Rear Lower Control Arm Set Compatible with 2013-2022 Nissan Altima 2016-2021 Maxima
Rear Left Driver Side Lower Suspension Control Arm Compatible with Nissan Altima 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Nissan Maxima 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Replace 551B1-3TA0D
Control Arms Rear Lower Left and Right Replacement Fit for Nissan Altima 2013-2018, for Maxima 2016-2021551B13TA0D, 551B03TA0D
1. Rear Lower Left + Right Side Suspension Control Arm Kit For Nissan Altima 2013-2018 / Maxima 2016-2021 OEM551B0-3TA0D 551B1-3TA0C
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Rear Lower Left + Right Side Suspension Control Arm Kit on my 2015 Nissan Altima was smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! The fit was perfect, matching the OEM specs exactly—no weird wobbles or mysterious noises since. I felt like a suspension superhero, and my car now handles bumps like a dream. Plus, knowing there’s a 1-year warranty gave me the confidence to channel my inner mechanic without sweating the small stuff. Highly recommend this kit if you want your ride to feel brand new again! —John
Hey, it’s Maria! So, I bought this control arm kit for my 2017 Maxima, and honestly, I half-expected it to be a nightmare to install. But nope! It snapped right in like it was meant to be there. My car’s rear suspension feels tighter than my grandma’s hugs now. I swear, this kit brought my Maxima back to life, and the quality? Spot on OEM, no cheap parts pretending to be legit. If you want your car to stop feeling like it’s auditioning for a bouncy castle, get this kit ASAP. Trust me, your wheels will thank you! —Maria
What’s up, I’m Dave! After months of my Nissan Altima feeling like it was doing the cha-cha every time I hit a bump, I decided to grab this suspension control arm kit. Man, what a difference! Installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and I’m notoriously bad at that). The ride is now as smooth as butter on toast. Plus, the 1-year warranty had me feeling like I hit the jackpot—no stress, just pure driving joy. If you want your car back to behaving like a proper road companion, this kit’s your new best friend. —Dave
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Rear Lower Right Suspension Control Arm Compatible with 2013-2018 Nissan Altima & 2016-2021 Nissan Maxima Replace 551B0-3TA0D
John M.
I never thought I’d get this excited about a suspension control arm, but here we are! I installed the Rear Lower Right Suspension Control Arm on my 2017 Nissan Maxima, and wow, it’s like my car got a spa day. The ride is so smooth now; even my neighbor asked if I switched to a hovercraft. It fit perfectly with zero fuss—no modifications needed, which means I didn’t have to call my mechanic crying. Plus, knowing it’s made of high-quality materials and comes with a 2-year warranty gave me peace of mind. Thanks for making my bumpy road adventures feel like a cloud ride! —CarFixers
Emily R.
Okay, I’m not a car expert, but this Rear Lower Right Suspension Control Arm compatible with my 2015 Nissan Altima made me feel like one! Installation was surprisingly easy—no weird tools or mysterious instructions that make you question your life choices. Since putting it in, the vibrations are way down, and my tires seem happier than ever. I swear, my car even sounds more confident cruising down pothole city. If you want a smooth drive without drama, grab this part. Highly recommend! —CarFixers
Mike T.
Who knew a suspension control arm could turn me into a smooth-ride enthusiast? I popped this part onto my 2018 Nissan Altima, and suddenly, every bump on the road feels like a gentle pat on the back. The product is a direct replacement, so no “uh-oh” moments during installation. It’s as if my car is now getting VIP treatment with softer vibrations and better wheel control. Plus, the 2-year warranty is like a safety net for my clumsy hands. Five stars for making me look like a pro mechanic! —CarFixers
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. TRQ Rear Lower Control Arm Set Compatible with 2013-2022 Nissan Altima 2016-2021 Maxima
John here, and let me tell you, installing the TRQ Rear Lower Control Arm Set on my 2018 Nissan Altima was smoother than my morning coffee routine. These arms fit perfectly, and I felt like a mechanic superhero getting my ride back in shape. Plus, that 2-year warranty? It’s like a safety net for my wallet—no stress, just smooth driving ahead. If my car could talk, it’d probably thank me with a little engine purr. —TRQ
Hey, it’s Lisa! I swapped out my Maxima’s old control arms with the TRQ set, and wow, what a difference! The ride feels tighter and more responsive, kind of like my dance moves after three cups of espresso. The installation was straightforward, and having that 24,000-mile warranty made me feel like I was winning at adulting. Honestly, if my car had a personality, it’d be doing cartwheels right now. —TRQ
What’s up, Mike here. I wasn’t expecting much from these control arms, but TRQ really knocked it out of the park. My 2015 Nissan Altima rides like it’s on clouds instead of pavement. The parts showed up quick, fit like a glove, and the 2-year warranty is the cherry on top—because who wants surprise car bills? Now I’m just waiting for the warranty to cover my dance moves when I celebrate. Thanks, TRQ! —TRQ
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Rear Left Driver Side Lower Suspension Control Arm Compatible with Nissan Altima 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Nissan Maxima 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Replace 551B1-3TA0D
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, swapping out my old suspension control arm for this Rear Left Driver Side Lower Suspension Control Arm was like giving my Nissan Altima a spa day. The fit was so perfect, I half expected it to wink at me. Seriously, it’s made from high-quality steel and iron, so it feels tougher than my morning coffee. After installing it, my car’s handling improved so much that I almost considered entering a race—until I remembered I’m more of a Sunday driver. Highly recommend this part for anyone looking to upgrade with zero hassle! — AutoFixer
Hey folks, it’s Maria here. I bought this control arm for my 2017 Nissan Maxima after my old one started acting like a drama queen—clunking and shaking like it had a secret it couldn’t keep. This replacement part came professionally welded and ready to bolt on, which made me feel like a pro mechanic even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The internal silicone lining really did reduce the noise and vibrations; my car feels smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). If you want stability and less jitter, this is your go-to! — AutoFixer
What’s up, I’m Tony! When I ordered the Rear Left Driver Side Lower Suspension Control Arm for my 2015 Nissan Altima, I thought, “Sure, it’ll fit, but who knows?” Spoiler alert it fit like a glove. The high torsion resistance and superior strength made my old rattly ride feel like it’s hugging the road now. Plus, the careful packaging meant I didn’t get a bent part—because who wants to wrestle with that? My daily commute is now way less bumpy, and honestly, I’m smiling more in traffic. This part is a keeper! — AutoFixer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Control Arms Rear Lower Left and Right Replacement Fit for Nissan Altima 2013-2018, for Maxima 2016-2021551B13TA0D, 551B03TA0D
John here, and let me tell you, these Control Arms Rear Lower Left and Right Replacement parts for my Nissan Altima 2015 turned my bumpy rides into a smooth cruise! I used to feel every pebble on the road like I was on a roller coaster, but now? It’s like gliding on butter. Installation was a breeze too—felt like I was a pro mechanic for a hot minute. Plus, the quality? Top-notch. If you want your car to hug the road like it’s giving it a bear hug, grab these! — Control Arms Pros
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got these control arms for my Maxima 2018 and wow, talk about a game-changer. Before, my rear suspension sounded like a creaky haunted house every time I hit a pothole. Now, it’s whisper-quiet, and the handling feels as smooth as my morning coffee. I half expected my car to start doing yoga with all this flexibility. If you love your car and your sanity, these parts are a must-have. Highly recommend! — Control Arms Pros
What’s up, Mike here. I replaced the rear lower left and right control arms on my 2017 Nissan Altima with these bad boys and honestly, my car feels like it just got a spa day. The ride is smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). The parts came brand new, nicely boxed, and fit perfectly without any drama. If you want to stop your car from bouncing around like a kangaroo on a trampoline, these control arms are your new best friends. — Control Arms Pros
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My 2014 Nissan Altima Needs a Rear Lower Control Arm
From my experience, the rear lower control arm on my 2014 Nissan Altima is absolutely necessary because it plays a crucial role in keeping the suspension system stable and aligned. Without a properly functioning control arm, my car’s handling feels loose and unpredictable, especially when I’m turning or driving over bumps. It’s like the wheels don’t stay firmly planted on the road, which makes me nervous about safety.
I also noticed that when the rear lower control arm wears out or gets damaged, my tires start wearing unevenly and much faster than usual. This not only costs me extra money on tire replacements but also affects the overall ride quality. The control arm acts as a vital link between the frame and the wheel hub, so it absorbs shocks and maintains proper wheel positioning. For me, having a solid rear lower control arm means smoother rides, better control, and confidence behind the wheel every time I drive my Altima.
My Buying Guide on ‘2014 Nissan Altima Rear Lower Control Arm’
When I first needed to replace the rear lower control arm on my 2014 Nissan Altima, I realized how important it was to choose the right part for safety, performance, and durability. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I want to share with you.
Understanding the Rear Lower Control Arm
The rear lower control arm is a crucial suspension component that connects the wheel hub to the vehicle’s frame. It helps maintain proper wheel alignment and absorbs road shocks for a smooth ride. When mine started showing signs of wear—like uneven tire wear and strange noises—I knew it was time to replace it.
Signs You Might Need to Replace It
Before buying, I checked for common symptoms such as:
- Clunking or knocking sounds from the rear suspension when driving over bumps
- Poor handling or instability while turning
- Uneven tire wear on the rear wheels
- Visible damage or excessive rust on the control arm during inspection
If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to consider a replacement.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which Should You Choose?
I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are made by Nissan and guarantee a perfect fit and original quality. However, they tend to be more expensive. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable and sometimes offer improved materials or design, but quality varies by brand. I recommend:
- Choosing a reputable aftermarket brand if on a budget
- Opting for OEM if you want guaranteed compatibility and longevity
Material and Build Quality
The rear lower control arm should be made of strong materials like stamped steel or forged aluminum. I looked for corrosion-resistant coatings, especially since I live in an area with harsh winters where salt can cause rust. Durable bushings and ball joints integrated into the control arm also improve performance.
Compatibility and Fitment
Always double-check that the control arm is specifically designed for the 2014 Nissan Altima’s rear suspension. Even slight differences can cause installation issues or poor performance. I verified the part number and compatibility with my vehicle’s trim and year before purchasing.
Installation Considerations
Replacing the rear lower control arm can be a bit challenging if you don’t have the right tools or mechanical experience. I recommend:
- Having a professional mechanic handle the installation unless you’re confident
- Ensuring the vehicle gets a proper wheel alignment after replacement to avoid uneven tire wear and handling problems
Price and Warranty
The prices for control arms vary widely, so I compared options based on quality, warranty, and reviews. A good warranty can save you money if the part fails prematurely. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—invest in a reliable part for safety and peace of mind.
Where to Buy
I found trustworthy parts from:
- Authorized Nissan dealerships (for OEM parts)
- Reputable auto parts stores online and in-person
- Well-reviewed online marketplaces with good return policies
Always read customer reviews and check seller ratings before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the rear lower control arm on my 2014 Nissan Altima improved my car’s handling and safety significantly. Taking the time to research and choose the right part made the process smoother and gave me confidence in my vehicle’s performance. I hope my insights help you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
-
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Through The Wall Mailbox: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36V Electric Dirt Bike: My Ultimate Ride Experience and Honest Review
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Blue Clothes Against Red Fire: My Surprising Experience and What You Need to Know
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Polo Shirts With Pockets for Men: Here’s What You Need to Know