Every Volvo driver wants to enjoy a smooth ride in their vehicles and this fun drive is usually made possible by the suspension system. The suspension bushings are among the parts of a suspension system that can affect the quality of the car’s ride. These auto parts are made of rubber or polyurethane and are placed at points where suspension parts are joined to the car structure or where one part is joined to another. When you have a functional suspension bushing, you can be sure that it will assist in reducing shocks, noise, and vibrations so that your Volvo can be more comfortable to ride in.
The bushings also contribute to stability and control by allowing for limited movement and preventing direct contact between one metal and the other. When these bushings are worn out, it will result in reduced handling ability of the car and rough ride. Now that we have an idea of what the bushings are, let's look at why they may fail and how these problems can be resolved in your Volvo.
Symptoms of Damaged Suspension Bushings
- Unusual Noises: One of the first indicators of a failing suspension bushing is noise emanating from the suspension. As soon as the bushing starts to fail, you are more likely to hear some noises such as clunking, knocking, or squeaking, especially when driving on a bumpy or rough road. These noises are produced because the bushings are worn out, and they can no longer absorb the movement of the suspension parts.
- Poor Handling: Another sign of bushing failure is a decrease in the handling performance of your Volvo. A worn bushing can cause more body roll when you're approaching corners or make the steering wander without maximal handling.
- Vibrations: If you get a feeling of increased vibration through the steering wheel or the body of the vehicle, you might have a faulty suspension bushing. These vibrations are supposed to be absorbed by the bushings, and if these are already worn out, you’ll feel the ride is rougher than usual.
- Uneven Tire Wear: If you notice that the tires are wearing out unevenly, then this could be an indication that the suspension bushings are worn out. When bushings wear out, it can cause the suspension system to be misaligned and this can result in uneven wearing of the tires and ends up shortening the tire life.
Solving Suspension Bushing Failure
- Inspect the Bushings: If you think that your suspension bushings are worn out, the first thing you should do is check them. Search for the visible signs of the wear such as cracks, tears, or significant deformation. You can do this yourself if you feel confident or you can take your car to a mechanic for a professional assessment.
- Check All Suspension Components: It is also important to let your Volvo mechanic inspect other components of the suspension system to ensure that they are not worn out or damaged when replacing the bushings. Components such as joints, control arms, and tie rods can wear out and cause your Volvo to handle poorly or even have an uncomfortable ride. It is a good idea to replace any worn parts to ensure the system remains in good condition.
- Replace the Bushings: The bushings should be replaced if they are worn out or damaged. If you need to replace bushings, it is recommended to use high-quality replacement bushings that fit the particular Volvo model. This helps in getting the right size and the right performance. Replacing bushings can be somewhat of a difficult process, so it is recommended to let a mechanic handle this task.
Professionals You Can Trust For Volvo Maintenance And Repairs In Nashville
Import Specialty Service has been 
the leading auto shop specializing in the repair of European and Asian import cars in Nashville, TN since 1994. So, whenever you need a Volvo repair or maintenance service, you can always count on our team of ASE-certified technicians. If you find that your Volvo is not as smooth as it used to be on the road or you think that there is something wrong with the suspension bushing, then you should contact us for repair. Call us now at (615) 834-6464 to get your Volvo running like the first day you bought it.