Dodge Viper Rear Upper Control Arm (2003-2017): Failure Symptoms & Used Buying Guide

Key Part Information & Vehicle Fitment

A significant advantage of this part is its wide range of compatibility. The same rear upper control arm fits all Dodge Vipers from 2003 through 2017, covering Generation 3 (2003-2006), Generation 4 (2008-2010), and Generation 5 (2013-2017). Furthermore, the part is interchangeable, meaning it can be installed on either the left (driver) or right (passenger) side of the vehicle. This simplifies sourcing a replacement.

The complete assembly includes the metal control arm, pre-installed rubber bushings where it mounts to the frame, and a ball joint at the wheel end. The primary failure point is typically not the sturdy metal arm itself, but the rubber bushings which can degrade over time.

Symptoms of a Failing Rear Upper Control Arm

A bad rear upper control arm can make your Viper feel unstable and produce noticeable sounds. Here are the most common symptoms:

• Clunking or Popping Noises: This is the most frequent sign. You may hear a clunk, pop, or creak from the rear of the car, especially when going over bumps, accelerating, or decelerating. This sound is often caused by worn bushings allowing metal-on-metal contact between the control arm and the frame. One Viper owner described a noise that sounded like a failed rubber bushing when transitioning from a standstill.
• Uneven Tire Wear: A worn control arm can no longer hold the wheel at the correct angle, leading to improper alignment. This often causes the inside or outside edge of the rear tires to wear out much faster than the rest of the tread.
• Poor Handling & Unstable Steering: The rear of the car may feel loose, disconnected, or like it's wandering, particularly during turns. This instability is due to excessive movement in the wheel assembly caused by worn bushings or a failing ball joint.
• Visible Bushing Damage: If you look at the control arm, you may see that the rubber bushings are cracked, torn, rotted, or deformed. An eBay listing for a used OEM arm specifically noted its dry-rotted bushings as the reason for replacement.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

There are no recalls specifically for the rear upper control arm on 2003-2010 Dodge Vipers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did investigate reports of rear suspension knuckle failures on these models. However, the investigation concluded in 2013, finding that the failures were the result of collisions, not manufacturing defects, and no recall was issued. While not directly related to the control arm, Chrysler did issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) instructing technicians to inspect the rear suspension, including the knuckle, if a customer expressed concern, though any replacement would not be free of charge unless covered by warranty.

Buying a Used Rear Upper Control Arm: What to Check

A used OEM control arm is an excellent alternative to expensive new parts, especially since the Mopar part has been discontinued. However, careful inspection is critical. The metal arm is robust, but the bushings and ball joint are wear items.

1. Inspect the Bushings: This is the most important check. The two rubber bushings where the arm mounts to the frame should be free of cracks, tears, and dry rot. They should be firm and not show signs of being crushed or deformed. If the bushings are bad, they will need to be pressed out and replaced, which requires a hydraulic press and adds cost and complexity to the repair.
2. Check the Ball Joint: The ball joint connects the arm to the wheel knuckle. Try to move the ball joint stud by hand. It should be stiff and difficult to move. If it's loose, floppy, or makes noise, it is worn out. The rubber boot covering the ball joint should be intact with no rips or leaks.
3. Examine the Arm for Damage: Inspect the entire metal arm for any signs of bending, cracks, or heavy corrosion. A bent arm will make proper wheel alignment impossible. Check for scraped or damaged areas that might indicate the vehicle was in an accident.
4. Verify Part Numbers: The most current part number is 05290117AE (or 5290117AE). This number supersedes older versions like 5290117AA, 5290117AB, and 5290117AC. While older versions will fit, the latest part number ensures you have the most recent revision.

Cost of Replacement

Prices can vary based on supplier and condition. As the new OEM part is scarce, used OEM is the most common replacement option.

Installation Guide & Difficulty

Replacing the rear upper control arm is a moderately difficult job that can be done by a skilled DIY mechanic with the right tools.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 3 hours per side
• Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, lug wrench, socket set (18mm, 19mm), torque wrench, ball joint separator tool.

Simplified Replacement Steps:

1. Safely lift and support the rear of the vehicle on jack stands and remove the wheel.
2. Support the lower control arm with a jack to prevent the suspension from dropping suddenly.
3. Loosen and remove the nut from the upper ball joint where it connects to the steering knuckle. Use a ball joint separator to pop the joint free from the knuckle.
4. Remove the two bolts holding the control arm bushings to the vehicle's frame. These are 18mm bolts on a Gen 4 Viper.
5. Remove the old control arm assembly.
6. Install the new control arm by first loosely attaching it to the frame.
7. Connect the new ball joint to the knuckle and tighten the castle nut to the manufacturer's specification, installing a new cotter pin.
8. With the suspension still supported by the jack (to simulate normal ride height), tighten the two frame bolts to their specified torque. This prevents premature wear on the new bushings.
9. Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)