Suspension top mountings

[HazzaCrawf]

I'm changing shock absorbers soon on my 2005 Clio. Would it be good practice to change top mounting bushes and the bearing while the shocks are out?

Furthermore, how would I check for "excessive movement" that would fail an MOT? Is there any situation in which the bearing could just be replaced (ie if no play and bushing in good condition)?

Thanks

[E-bmw]

In your position my answer would depend on the answer to this question.

Do you intend to keep the car for a while?

If so, all suspension parts are wearing at the same rate, if something in the same area goes next year you will end up doing the job or some part of it twice or more.

In that case I would do everything at once.

ARB drop links, wishbone bushes, top mounts, track rod ends, ball joints etc do the job once.