Hi everyone, I was just curious as to when you would know that you need to replace the LCA bushings on your car. Is it based on mileage, sounds, or ride? My car has over 70k miles on it now, but my mechanic said my bushings are fine. I just want to know what should I look out for, when I'm driving or when its on the lift.

Thanks

 

Do you hear any noise when going over bumbs? Was your mechanic at the dealer? 70k is a lot of miles if they are stock.

 

 

If you have 70k on stock bushings they are done.
Do you feel clunking, excess drivetrain play. loose steering, odd tire wear.
do the wheels move around if you put a breaker bar on them.
still 70k they are done just replace them with poly and never think about it again.

 

Do the simple tire kick test. Good LCA bushes have no play.

 

My MINI has 95K. The last mechanic to look at the suspension said everything was fine. Although I was doubtful. And I'm especially doubtful the previous owner ever replaced them.

I do have odd tire wear (so said the same mechanic) but I think my alignment is off as well (steering wheel naturally rests a bit to the right.)

Could you elaborate? I know if I try to remove the tire lug nuts, the wheels would turn slightly. Is this normal?

I did the "kick test" but didn't notice anything.