Suspension Bushings
Worn bushings in control arms and anti-roll bars can cause clunking over bumps, play in the steering and uneven tyre wear. Here we collect suspension bushing kits – for you who want to restore the precision of a worn car or give a project firmer, more direct handling.
How to choose suspension bushings
The bushings sit between the control arms, anti-roll bars or rear axle mounts and the body, and determine how much the parts can move. If you replace the original rubber bushings with a harder material, steering can typically become more precise and wheel alignment more stable under load. On the other hand, more vibration and road noise can reach the cabin. How much depends on material, hardness and mounting location.
- Mounting location: Control arm, anti-roll bar and rear bushings affect the car differently. For example, there are kits for the front lower inner control arm on the Audi Q5 from SuperPro and anti-roll bar bushings for the Corvette from Prothane.
- Dimensions: Anti-roll bar bushings must match the bar diameter, e.g. 28.6 mm.
- Material: Some kits are available in Delrin or aluminium, which typically allow even less movement than polyurethane but can also produce more noise.
- Car model: Kits are often built for specific models and model years, e.g. Camaro, Challenger or Jimny.
In addition to SuperPro and Prothane, the category includes Energy Suspension, Whiteline and Fabtech, among others. Installation often requires pressing out the old bushings and having the wheel alignment measured afterwards. If you want to tighten up the entire chassis, you can combine them with strut top mounts and body and subframe bushings.
Frequently asked questions
Will the car ride harder with polyurethane bushings?
It can. Harder bushings typically transmit more vibration and road noise, while the ride comfort itself is mainly governed by springs and shock absorbers. How noticeable the difference is depends on material, hardness and which bushings you replace.
Why do new bushings squeak after installation?
Squeaking is often caused by missing or incorrect lubrication between the bushing and the sleeve or bar. Many polyurethane bushings are supplied with special grease that must be applied during installation. Use the type of grease the manufacturer recommends, as other grease can degrade some materials.
Can my car pass inspection with new suspension bushings?
That depends on the product and the car. Bushings that change wheel alignment or geometry may require a special assessment. Check the approval for the specific part number, and have the wheel alignment measured after installation.