I've tried searching around a little bit but couldn't really find a direct answer. When do you have to change out the control arm bushings in the upper and lower arms? If I'm generally not having any issues with my front end, should I even be concerned? The bushings do look worn and there is some cracking in them, but in general I don't seem to have any issues.

 

If the bushings are cracked, they will fail shortly, (if not already). The ball joints are mounted in the outboard end of the control arms. They should only move up and down as the vehicle goes over bumps and dips in the road. When the bushings fail, they will move in and out, which will cause camber, caster, and toe to constantly change, which will cause difficulty in controlling the vehicle, and cause the tires will wear out prematurely. Might want to have a front end specialty shop look at the front suspension and steering linkage for you.