What do the suspension bushes do?
Bushings (or bushes) are components that are made of rubber cushioning material. This material reduces vibrations, allowing for better absorption of bumps and impacts. The bushes also have the secondary job of reducing movement of suspension components by keeping them aligned and held in place.
Your car’s suspension system has several bushings located throughout it. The bushings work alongside the shock absorbers to create a smoother, more stable driving experience with fewer bumps. Bushings are usually placed around the control arms, shock absorbers, struts and sway bar.
Click here to learn more about the different types of suspension bushing
When should suspension bushes be replaced?
Bushings are usually made of heavy-duty rubber. This material is designed to last a long time. However, bushings are under constant pressure from the suspension system and this can lead to them eventually wearing and failing. Wear can be caused by extreme heat or by twisting, tearing, perishing or cracking of the bushes.
The exact lifespan of bushes depends on how a vehicle is driven. Anything that can put stress on the bushes can eventually lead to their failure. For example, a car that is driven on bumpy, unsealed roads will need a bushing replacement sooner than a vehicle that is driven primarily through the city. In fact, many suspension bushes may last the entire life of a vehicle in some cases.
How to increase the life of your suspension bushings:
- Avoid driving at high speeds down bumpy, uneven or unsealed roads.
- Slow down for speed bumps.
- Avoid driving over the kerb.
- Avoid driving over man hole covers and pole holes in the road
- Avoid leaving the vehicle in long grass for sustained periods of time
Symptoms of failing suspension bushings:
When bushings begin to fail, they may begin to show the following symptoms:
- Loud clunking or rattling noises – A damaged bushing may produce loud clunking noises as you drive. This can be caused by suspension components hitting each other or a bushing failing to absorb impacts.
- Increased tyre wear – When bushings fail, the weight of your vehicle may be distributed unevenly, causing it to lean to one side. This puts increased pressure on the tyres, causing them to wear more quickly and need replacement sooner.
- Loose steering – You may experience reduced control over your vehicle, especially when going around corners. This can be caused by a failing suspension bushing.
- Visible cracking on bushings Upon inspection, you may notice that the bushings appear cracked or ripped. This is a clear sign that the bushing will need replacing.
Bad suspension bushings can affect your safety:
When bushings begin to wear, it is important that the problem is fixed sooner rather than later. This is because damage to the suspension system can affect the stability of your car and how much control you have over your car.
Replacing a bushing early will reduce safety risks, ensuring your car is able to safely absorb bumps and go around corners.
Suspension Bush Replacement Service in Hamilton
Is your car in need of new bushings in its suspension system? If so, we can help. We can replace all types of bushing regardless of whether it’s a control arm bushing, shock absorber bushing or sway bar bushing. Our mechanics are also able to quickly identify the symptoms associated with a bad suspension bushing and locate the root of the issue.
A suspension bushing replacement will allow for:
- A smoother, less shaky ride.
- Increased control of your vehicle.
- An increase in tyre lifespan.
For suspension bushing repairs, servicing and replacement in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!