Replacing the control arm bushing - how to care for the suspension in the car?

Bushings, also known as bushings, are small suspension elements. They are made of rubber and metal, and in cars are attached to the suspension arms. Their primary task is to dampen any vibrations during movement. Unfortunately, they fail very often, so replacing the swingarm bushing is something that every driver has to do from time to time. How often? It all depends on your driving style, but not only. Learn how to successfully replace swing arm bushings.

Replacing the bushings of the transverse levers in the car - what is their breakdown?

In fact, damage to the steering knuckle bushings is synonymous with wear. Most of the surface of this part is covered with rubber, which wears out over time. The consequence of this is the loss of the corresponding thickness. The only solution in this case is to replace the silent blocks of the steering knuckle. 

Sometimes these elements are mechanically damaged when they hit something hard. Their location makes them vulnerable to such bugs. When driving, care must be taken not to damage them. 

Replacing the transverse arm bushing in a car - how to check if it is needed?

Before you know how to replace swingarm bushings, you should be able to judge when it's needed. Fortunately, checking if a swingarm bushing needs to be replaced in a car is easy. You must remember that the pendulum itself is an extremely strong piece. Thus, in most cases, any malfunctions in this area of ​​the car will be related to the bushings. 

The main symptom that should give you a red light is the knock you hear in the suspension. Most often, this will be accompanied by a noticeable jerk when starting off. What else may indicate the need to replace the control arm bushings in the car? For example, instability was felt during movement. This is extremely dangerous, so you should fix this problem as soon as possible. 

If any of these situations have affected you recently, the swing arm bushings may need to be replaced. But that shouldn't bother you. These components are not too expensive and, as you already know, their failure can create dangerous situations on the road.

Independent replacement of suspension arms - when to carry it out?

You already know when the condition of the suspension arms can be in doubt. Now it's time to learn how to replace the swingarm bushings, as well as how to prevent serious problems with these components.

It is imperative that the condition of the bushing is checked at every inspection. But this is not the end. Replacing the transverse arm bushing is an event that should be performed at least once every 30 km of run. Of course, if these parts show signs of wear sooner, you will need to replace them with new ones. 

Learn how to replace swingarm silent blocks yourself and with the help of a specialist!

Replacing the transverse arm bushing - work steps

Learn how to replace swingarm bushings step by step! This operation is quite complex and requires the appropriate equipment, so most people prefer to have it performed by a mechanic. You must have a hydraulic press, without which you will not be able to mount new elements. If you have one in your home workshop, you can try replacing the swingarm bushing yourself. 

Here are the steps to replace the swingarm bushings.

1. Remove the rocker arm and insert it into the hydraulic press.
2. Press out the damaged bushings with special drifts.
3. Lubricate the new bushings with silicone spray, it will be much easier for you to drive them in.
4. Once you have placed the new parts and installed the swingarm, the job is done. Do not forget to align the wheel alignment after finishing work. Otherwise, replacing the pendulum bushings will not bring the expected results.

How much does it cost to have a pendulum bushing replaced by a professional?

The answer to the question of how to replace the control arm bushings is quite complicated. You need the right equipment for this activity. That is why many people prefer to seek professional help. How much does it cost? Replacing the pendulum bushing by a mechanic costs between 80 and 12 euros. This is not too high a price, but you can be sure of the quality of the service itself.

Replacing swingarm bushings is an inexpensive maintenance operation that should not be delayed. Destroyed elements negatively affect both the ride itself and other suspension parts. They also pose a danger while driving, both for you, your passengers and other road users. Take care of your car and do not postpone this action indefinitely! If you want to save money, replace the swing arm bushing yourself or compare prices at local workshops.