2012 GMC Acadia Front Suspension Control Arm Part Numbers: A Complete Guide

If you’re dealing with front-end clunks, uneven tire wear, or wandering steering on your 2012 GMC Acadia, worn control arms are a likely suspect. The control arms connect the wheel hub to the vehicle’s frame and allow the suspension to move up and down while keeping the tires planted. Replacing them requires the correct part numbers, but the Acadia came with different suspension configurations—standard vs. V92 (heavy-duty) or V48 (trailering package)—which affect the parts you need. This guide covers the exact OEM part numbers for the 2012 GMC Acadia front suspension control arms, explains how to identify your vehicle’s suspension type, and offers practical advice on selecting replacement arms.

Understanding Your 2012 GMC Acadia’s Front Suspension

The 2012 Acadia uses a MacPherson strut front suspension with lower control arms. Upper control arms are not present; the strut assembly serves as the upper pivot point. The lower control arm consists of a forged steel arm with two ball joints (front and rear) and two or three bushings. Important variations:

• Standard suspension: Most Acadia models (excluding those with trailering or heavy-duty packages).
• V92 / Trailering package: Includes a heavier-duty rear stabilizer bar and sometimes different front dampers, but control arms are the same as standard for 2012.
• V48 / Heavy-duty suspension: Rare; may have different spring rates but control arms remain identical for 2012.

Always confirm by checking your VIN or looking under the vehicle. No special control arm variations exist for AWD vs FWD; the same arms fit all drivetrains.

OEM Part Numbers for 2012 GMC Acadia Front Control Arms

General Motors uses distinct part numbers for the left and right lower control arms. These are the genuine GM numbers:

| Position | OEM Part Number | Notes | |----------|----------------|-------| | Left (driver side) | 20851231 | Comes with ball joints and bushings pre-installed. Also fits 2012 Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Saturn Outlook. | | Right (passenger side) | 20851232 | Same assembly as left but mirrored. |

Important: These part numbers have superseded earlier ones. If you find 25822541 or 25822542 for later model years, they are not correct for 2012—those are for 2013+ vehicles with different ball joint angles. Always confirm the year.

Additional Hardware You May Need

When replacing control arms, it’s smart to also get new:

• Control arm bolts and nuts (GM part 11547590 for the two rear bolts; front bolts may be reused).
• Stabilizer bar link kits (if yours are worn).
• Strut mounting hardware (if you’re removing the strut).

Aftermarket Control Arms: Which Brands Offer the Right Fit?

Several reputable brands manufacture control arms that match OEM specifications. The key is to verify the part number for your specific application. Here are brands commonly used by mechanics:

• MOOG: Known for durable ball joints and bushings. Part numbers: RK620208 (left) and RK620209 (right) for the 2012 Acadia. MOOG arms often come with grease fittings for future lubrication.
• ACDelco: GM’s official parts brand. Part numbers: 45A1857 (left) and 45A1858 (right). These are identical to genuine GM but sold under the ACDelco name. Often cheaper than OEM.
• Detroit Axle: Budget-friendly option. Part numbers: DA8034 (left?) – always cross-check with your VIN. Some users report premature wear, but price is attractive.
• TRW: European OEM supplier. Not as common for Acadia but parts number JFB11741 (left) and JFB11742 (right) fit DO NOT USE. TRW is excellent but harder to find.

How to Ensure Correct Fitment

1. Check your vehicle’s build date (find on driver’s door jamb). Control arms changed slightly after April 2012? No – actually the 2012-2014 uses the same arms. But 2015+ changed. So your 2012 is safe.
2. Look for “V92” or “V48” on your glovebox sticker. If present, the control arms are still the same, but search for “heavy duty” just in case.
3. When ordering online, use the part numbers above directly. Avoid generic listing that say “fits 2009-2017” – they may include incorrect parts for later years.

Step-by-Step: Replacing the Front Control Arm

While this article isn’t a full repair guide, here’s a high-level overview so you understand what’s involved:

1. Prepare the vehicle: Park on level ground, loosen the wheel lug nuts, jack up the front, support with jack stands, remove wheel.
2. Remove the stabilizer bar link (if attached to control arm).
3. Remove the wheel speed sensor wire from the arm if present.
4. Support the lower control arm with a jack (slightly lift to compress spring).
5. Remove the two large bolts that secure the arm to the frame crossmember (rear bolts). Note: the front bushing bolt is through the arm and the subframe.
6. Separate the ball joints from the steering knuckle using a pry bar or ball joint separator.
7. Unscrew the front bushing bolt (may be a nut on top, accessible after removing some shield).
8. Remove the old control arm – it may require prying due to tension.
9. Install new arm: Follow reverse order. Tighten all bolts to spec (check service manual). Torque is critical – usually around 111 ft-lbs for the rear frame bolts and 96 ft-lbs for the front.
10. Get an alignment immediately after replacement. Control arm position affects camber and caster.

Warning: If your Acadia has RPO code “F55” (Continuously Damping Control), you have special dampers but control arms are the same.

Common Signs of a Bad Control Arm

• Clunking noise when driving over bumps or turning.
• Vibration in the steering wheel.
• Uneven wear on inner edge of front tires.
• Looseness in steering (excessive play).
• Visible torn rubber bushings or excessive play in ball joints.

If you have these symptoms, inspect your control arms. The ball joints are the most common failure point, and many aftermarket arms allow you to replace just the ball joint, but the complete arm replacement is often easier.

Where to Buy: Considerations

• Dealership: Guaranteed correct fit but most expensive. Typical price: $250–$350 per arm.
• Auto parts stores: Advance Auto, AutoZone, O’Reillys carry MOOG and ACDelco. Prices $120–$200 per arm.
• Online retailers: RockAuto (not a marketplace, just a parts seller) often has the best prices, but shipping and core charges apply. Use the part numbers above to search.

Always check return policy. Some cheaper arms fail within a year. Spending a little more on MOOG or OEM is usually worth it for the Acadia’s weight (over 4,500 lbs).

Final Recommendation

For most 2012 GMC Acadia owners, we recommend MOOG RK620208 (left) and RK620209 (right). They come with pre-installed ball joints and premium bushings, and they have grease fittings so you can extend their life. If you prefer genuine GM parts, order 20851231 and 20851232 from a GM dealer or online parts store. Avoid no-name brands unless you’re on a very tight budget and plan to replace them again in 30,000 miles. After installing, align the vehicle and check the front end noise should disappear. Keep your original receipt and box with part numbers for future reference.