Bushings in the suspension of the car have a purpose to isolate the body from the noise and vibrations generated while driving, and also to protect suspension components from wear at mounting points, provide their stable location and reliable connection to the car body. Forms of bushings are very diverse and depend on the design features of a particular brand of car. In contrast to the Bushings, bushings are not reinforced (with metal) elements – this significantly reduces the service life and makes them expendable.
Stabilizer bar (or anti-roll bar) bushings take on heavy loads during cornering and driving through pothole. Worn-out of stabilizer bushings is determined visually. The appearance of abrasions, cracks and gaps between the bushings and the stabilizer, indicate the necessity to replace the bushings. Dirt and moisture penetrate into the clearance between the bushing and the stabilizer. This causes the quicker abrasion and breakage of the stabilizer. Radial displacement of the stabilizer inside the worn-out bushings can cause a knock in the suspension.
Other suspension parts such as shock absorbers, anti-roll bar links, leaf springs and rods may also be connected to the vehicle body by means of bushings, which are in the same way as the stabilizer bushings are subjects to the same damages, accompanied by creaking and knocking in the suspension of the car.
When replacing, it is necessary to clean thoroughly the housing surfaces from rust, dirt and remnants of the old bushes. Replace all worn-out fasteners. New bushings should be lubricated before installation. Thus, you will extend the life of the bushings and suspension parts.