What are Suspension Bushes?

Polyurethane suspension bushes are an integral component of the automotive industry, used in steering and suspension parts. Their purpose is to act as a cushion to absorb noise, vibration and harshness for a comfortable and safe ride.

What are suspension bushes?

A suspension bush is an elastic part fitted between most suspension components. The bushes connect the suspension of the vehicle to its frame. In general, they align the suspension and components of the steering assembly.

They ensure there is no erosion between the parts of the suspension framework. The bushes act as vibration covers that lessen the force transmitted from one moving component to another. They also control and diminish commotion between joints.

Where are bushes used?

Bushes are mostly found in the front wheels and rarely in the rear wheels of some cars. Bushes are used in different parts like ball joints, gearbox mounts, stabiliser bars, tie rods, shock absorbers, chassis connection points, control arms, engine mounts and control arms.

Control arms

The two control arms (upper and lower) on the suspension have a rubber bushing at the end encased between two metal sleeves. The bushings are essential for tyre alignment and affect vehicle control, tyre wear and handling. This bushing helps cushion the car from vibrations and small bumps and lubricates the inner and outer metal sleeves.

Stabiliser bar bushings

There are usually two stabiliser bars per vehicle, and each has two bushings. The bushes are under the car to prevent excessive vehicle roll during cornering. This means they are constantly twisting and flexing, thus wearing out quickly.

Leaf spring bushings

The bushings are used in the rear suspension of heavy-load carrying vehicles. The leaf springs support the vehicle’s weight and keep the tyre in contact with the road. The bushings require regular change because of the weight and force they encounter.

What are bushes commonly made from?

Bushings are an integral part of the suspension system and their absence makes a big difference. They are available in rubber, synthetic rubber, aluminium and polyurethane.

Why should you choose polyurethane suspension bushes?

Polyurethane is the go-to choice for bushes because it’s a flexible, durable and elastomeric material. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider polyurethane suspension bushes for your suspension upgrade:

• They are hard and can cope with the demands of the suspension system, thus may outlast the vehicle.
• Comprehensive warranties usually cover suspension bushes.
• Polyurethane suspension bushes are resistant to oils, road chemicals, rust, heat and UV
• With proper maintenance, they do not squeak
• They require greasing only every 3-5 years
• They are more efficient as they don’t flex as much
• In comparison with rubber bushes, they are cheaper

Signs that your bushes need replacing

Suspension bushes decrease vibrations, limit movement and cover suspension parts. They may decay after some time as they are in contact with other components and undergo temperature changes and extreme stress. This makes them become worn out and cracked, thus requiring replacement. The following are ways to know you need new bushes:

Steering issues

The driver may lack control of the steering and experience a bumpy ride. The steering becomes loose and less responsive at high speeds and tends to lean to one side when taking sharp turns. Wandering steering may lead to erratic turns. The driver may also feel wheel vibration while moving, turning or braking.

Abnormal clunking and creaking noise

Dysfunctional suspension bushes can lead to creaking noises when braking or accelerating. The suspension parts tend to clunk together when driving along an uneven surface.

Low performance and comfort

Bad bushing results in vibrations throughout the drive and wheel wobbling while driving. The engine and the gearbox mounts cause vibrations from the front of the car when accelerating. This makes the drive uncomfortable.

Unstable braking and uneven tyre wear

Experiencing braking inefficiency may be a result of the worn-out bushing. Worn-out bushing leads to uneven tyre tread wear, causing alignment issues.

It is important to regularly check your bushes to ensure proper tyre traction, stable steering and longevity of other suspension parts. Ensure you fit the correct bushes for the vehicle. At CMP, we create custom bushes to meet your specific needs. With decades of experience, we guarantee quality and reliability at competitive prices.