$2,000 Control Arm Replacement on My 2016 Highlander — Worth It? Yes, absolutely.
Just replaced the front control arms on my 2016 Toyota Highlander — a suspension repair that set me back $2,000 at the dealership, including a required wheel alignment.
Sure, it’s a hefty repair bill. But I’m not complaining.
Why I Did It
At 9 years old, it’s a little early for this kind of work, but not unreasonable. Parts like control arms naturally wear down over time, especially with daily use. I chose OEM parts and went with dealer service to ensure long-term reliability—because I plan to keep this SUV around for the long haul.
Next on the list: replacing the struts and shocks. That’ll likely run another $2,000–$3,000, depending on whether I go with factory-spec KYB or upgrade to Bilstein B6 for better ride quality and control.
The Bigger Picture
All in, I’m budgeting about $1,000 per year in maintenance over the next decade to keep this vehicle running strong through 2036 — its 20th year.
That breaks down to roughly $83 per month — far less than what I’d pay for a monthly payment on a new car.
Why It’s Worth It
New SUVs today easily cost $40,000–$60,000. Even with 0% financing (which is rare now), I’d be looking at $600–$900/month for 5–7 years — plus higher insurance and registration.
By contrast, maintaining my Highlander means:
- No new car loan
- Lower insurance costs
- A vehicle I know inside and out
Final Thoughts
Yes, the repair bills are real. But for me, the math still works. I’d rather invest in keeping a well-maintained, reliable vehicle on the road than start over with a new car and a new debt.
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