Small but important parts of your vehicle’s suspension system, rubber suspension bushings are used to cushion, reduce vibration and cut down on friction between the metal parts of the suspension system and your car’s frame. Bushings allow the suspension parts to move without transferring vibration to the car’s cabin while flexing and moving to help deliver a more comfortable ride when traveling over bumps.
Bushings can fail if the rubber material dries out, leaving the bushing hard to the touch. Bushings typically break down due to age, heat, heavy loads, road salt and oils and stress from repeated movement. Bad bushings can make controlling your vehicle difficult. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it could be the result of failing bushings.
· Loose steering
· Uneven tire wear
· Excess vibration and road noise in the cabin
· Creaking or banging sounds coming from wheel fenders
· Rattling sounds coming from car frame when hitting bumps