Audi is telling me my upper control arm bushings are "very blown out." 7 months ago, I looked at them and they were cracking quite a bit and it's a known issue with these cars, so I'm inclined to believe them.

However, rather than pay them $900+ just for the bushings, I'm leaning toward replacing the entire set of control arms and everything (at least in the front) for a small performance upgrade.

Anyone have experience with this kit from Meyle or something similar? Is it going to radically stiffen up the ride comfort of my A4 (it seems like it's stiffer than the stock setup)?

Audi B7 A4 Quattro 2.0T Suspension Control Arm Kits - 1160500085hd - complete Heavy Duty Front Control Arm Kit - ES#2568300

Also, it looks like there aren't really any options for the rear. Should I just go with OEM or just replace bushings back there? I might have to take a look at them too--I'm guessing the fronts are the more critical ones anyway.

 

One further question. Is it worth going with adjustable control arms? I found this kit for about the same price with adjustables, but I'm not sure about the brand.

Audi Control Arm Kit Front Lower & Uppers (A4 A4 Quattro) - B7OPTION3KITSP1 | FCP Euro

 

The Meyle and FCPEuro kits are great, especially for the price. A lot of us run them with no problems. Unless you're lowering the car you really don't need adjustables.

 

I've installed 3 kits in A8 & S8, from FCP. 8 control arms, sway links, and tie rod ends. I don't like the cheap nuts I got on them. I re-used the old ones instead of using those. I bought the cheapest kits. Less than $300. The upper rear control arms don't hold up, and I'd love to find an upgrade. All in all I agree the kits are good ones. Especially for the money. Are OEM control arms made by Lemforder ? When you do the job, or have someone else do it. Be sure they know to leave the bushing end loose until the car is sitting level. I cheat and jack the hub up to just the right spot. If you don't get that right you will drastically reduce the life of the bushing end.