Should I replace my suspension bushes?

[nsa]

1996 Hi-Lux Surf, new to me, 100,000km.

I've seen no history of the bushes being changed, but looking underneath nothing has obviously perished, and some actually look in good condition. The car rides fine although it's obviously nothing like a new car.

I wondered if the rubber in older bushes loses its elasticity and whether installing new OEM bushes would make a significant difference to the ride. I would likely replace the springs and shocks at the same time.

I love this car and it cost me hardly anything.

[GreenV8S]

You seem to have ruled out any potential reason for replacing the bushes so I can't see why you're even considering it.

[PositronicRay]

It'll undoubtedly feel better for a suspension refresh. It improved my 94 SL, dampers control arms, top mounts, steering damper, ARB bushes.

I didn't bother with the springs, they're not broken or sagging.

[sgtBerbatov]

I've a 1998 Corolla and had a similar situation.

I went under the rear of the car, and I noticed the shocks were gone. On closer inspection 1 bush looked like it was breaking up. But the rest were fine. I reasoned that if I was doing the shocks I might as well improve (where I can) the bushes, and I wouldn't have to worry about it.

So yeah, maybe it's something to consider when you have to do work on the suspension. But I wouldn't do it just because you don't know it's been done.

[Pica-Pica]

My BMW E36 had two sets of bushes changed in its 150,000 life. Not unusual for multi-link axles.