auto experts: ball joints and control arms?

[mrbigstuff]

JoeH wrote:
[quote=mrbigstuff]
[quote=JoeH]
[quote=mrbigstuff]
it drives me crazy that a huge piece of aluminum is tossed aside, when it takes so much energy to manufacture and all it needs is a rubber bushing.

Auto parts like control arms are largely sold with a core charge. The used part gets returned for a credit. Most get used for remanufactured parts after being evaluated for damage that would preclude being reused. Bushings and other wear parts get replaced using proper tooling, the part gets sold. Those that are damaged get recycled. They are not just tossed aside.
They maybe recycled but they are not usually subject to a core charge. You may be the thinking of brake calipers.
I have seen core charges on just about any suspension assembly that is a replacement for an OEM part when I have bought them in the past. I know my mechanic gets the core charges as well, but he doesn't pass on the credit to me. Instead he collects that and charges a bit lower labor rates than some other shops in the area.

I have not seen core charges on performance replacement parts as the part coming off will not be usable as a core by the manufacturer. Components such as the ball joints or tie rod ends also do not have core charges.
You may want to check with your mechanic on those sort of extra charges.

I'll give you some examples of cars I've recently (within the last few years) worked on:

2008 Nissan
Control Arms - no core charge
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/niss...+arm,10401
Brake Calipers - core charge
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/niss...0206,brake+&+wheel+hub,caliper,1704

2000 Volvo
Control Arms - no core charge
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/volv...+arm,10401

Brake Calipers - core charge
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/volv...4013,brake+&+wheel+hub,caliper,1704