control arm bushings

[johnny c]

I have 160,000kms on my 02 xc, I don't know if the control arm bushings have ever been replaced. What is the correct way to check these bushings and what (or when) dictates when they should be replaced? (measurements, etc...) Thanks in advance.[happy]

[jdj2]

You can almost just inspect them visually. When mine failed, I observed the following:

Front - torn rubber between the inner and outer sections of the bushing. If you want to verify, put a pry bar between the control arm and the frame and see if you can get movement with light pressure.

Rear - Mine had a torn boot, and I could see the ball inside was spalled on it's surface.

My advice might be to just buy rebuilt control arms. I think IPD has them for about $85, and it beats pressing bushings in and out.

At 160,000, it's a pretty good chance they are shot. I had to replace both mine at about 115,000km, and the fronts again at 150,000km. Of course, Namibian roads are a bit harsh on the front end!

Good Luck,


Jeff