This post is related to my other thread re MDX trailing arm bushings but is a more general question. How do you know when to replace a suspension rubber bushing? When I replaced the dog bone strut on my 99 Avalon it was easy...the radial rubber ligaments where torn all the way through. But what about superficial cracking or very small tears? Do rubber bushings tend to fail quickly after they start to crack or can they last for years with minor cracks? This article does not mention superficial cracks. It talks only about bushing failures which cause handling problems and noise.
www.generalspringkc.com
Here is another good discussion which says almost any rubber bushing over 5 years old will start to check and is normal.
How To Tell if Suspension Bushes Are Worn | General Spring
Typical tell-tale signs of worn bushings under a vehicle include the following symptoms: The vehicle makes rattling noises when driven over gravelly roads. The vehicle sounds as though it is clunking when you make sharp turns or hit the brakes. The vehicle feels as though it is trembling along...
www.generalspringkc.com
Here is another good discussion which says almost any rubber bushing over 5 years old will start to check and is normal.
Cracked Control Arm Bushings (vehicle, brakes, tire, truck) - Automotive -Sports cars, sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, tickets, dealers, repairs, gasoline, drivers... - City-Data Forum
My daughter drives a 2004 Toyota Highlander and my mechanic says that her control arm bushings have cracks throughout. It steers fine and seems tight
www.city-data.com
Last edited:
