Tens of thousands of parts make up a typical car or truck, and many will wear out over time. Some are specifically designed to do this, while others will naturally deteriorate due to the stress and strain of everyday use. As a car owner or driver, it is your responsibility to ensure that the vehicle is as roadworthy as possible and make sure that crucial parts are inspected from time to time. This is particularly important for the suspension and steering components, including the various bushes, but what are these, and what should you look for?

Understanding the Bush

A suspension bush is, typically, a rubber component that fits in between the two metal parts. You will find a number of them on each side of the vehicle, and they help to join components such as the steering arm, wishbone, control arm, trailing arm or steering rack.

Each of these bushes also helps to cut down on vibration and other road noise. In addition, a certain amount of flexibility is built into the rubber bush to make it a lot easier for the driver to manoeuvre in certain conditions.

As these parts are made from rubber, they will naturally deteriorate over time. Certainly, this will not happen quickly, but you need to be on the lookout for any tell-tale warning signs.

Apparent Issues

When one of these parts cracks or splits, you will notice the problem immediately. For example, your vehicle may shudder when you apply the brakes, or you may hear a humming or knocking noise when you turn the steering wheel. In any case, you will need to take immediate action if you do notice an obvious issue.

Service Time

It is far better to be proactive rather than reactive and ensure that your friendly mechanic has a good look over your suspension system. They will inspect the condition of each bush and will recommend a course of action at that time.

Experts Only

If one or more of these rubber bushes has to be replaced, this is not an easy job. You will find it very difficult to remove the part without specially designed tools, and it is equally challenging to replace.

Better to Be Safe Than Sorry

If it has been some time since you took your vehicle in for a service, pick up the phone. Ask your auto mechanic to have a good look at all the suspension components so that you are always as safe as possible on the road.