A suspension bush is a fitted to a vehicle’s suspension system, to decrease the vibration from the roads surface and the vehicle. They are made from rubber and are small in size, though they work extremely well to provide a smoother and more comfortable ride. Suspension bushes can be found on various parts of a vehicle, such as ball joints as well as control arms. 

What is the lifespan of a suspension bush?

The duration of time a suspension bush is dependent on various factors, such as: 

• Road surface  
• Driving style  
• Frequency of driving  

Can you drive on worn suspension bushes?

When suspension bushes are worn out, it can be unsafe to continue driving. Not only will the drive feel more uneven and uncomfortable, the stability of your vehicle whilst driving will be impacted. This is due to worn suspension bushes limiting the control of your steering from the lack of vibrations absorbed from the roads surface – making steering feel either heavier or looser.  

If your vehicles suspension bushes are worn out excessively, this could be classified as a major defect if they become detached and may lead to an MOT failure.  

Signs that your suspension bushes may need replacing

There are various signs you can look out for that may indicate your suspension bushes are in need of a replacement. This includes: 

• Unusual noises, such as knocking or rattling, when driving  
• Uneven tyre wear  
• Slight drifting when turning from the steering wheel 
• The sound of metal-on-metal rubbing against each other 
• A clunking sound when driving over uneven terrain 

How much does it cost to replace suspension bushes? 

The cost of replacing your vehicles suspension bushes will depend on how damaged the suspension bush is, as well as the make and model of your vehicle. In some cases, replacing the ball joint or suspension arm, along with the suspension bush, may be more feasible due to the work that is required, as the wheel alignment may also need to be checked.  

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