As Strong as the Weakest link: Bushings & Ball Joints

Here at ISC, countless times we see customers install coilovers and sway-bars on their car, yet they pay no attention to their worn out control arm bushings and balljoints. These components are critical to a proper alignment and a safe vehicle. Control arm bushings which are made of rubber, polyurethane or other materials are typically mounted on the suspension and steering joints which help absorb shock. They also provide support for movement. When these bushings were out, they not only make for an unsafe vehicle but they also cause poor handling and loose steering. The ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckles. When the wheels move the ball joints aid the suspension which in turn keeps the control arms steady and ultimately the ball joints help the wheels steer properly. In a nut shell: ball joints pivot between the wheels and the suspension of your vehicle. When they wear out they cause a wobble in your wheels which also causes your steering wheel to shake. What we are getting at here is don’t put all your eggs (money) in one basket (a single car component, like coilovers). It is a much better idea to spend a bit less on coilovers and make sure you have the extra cash to invest in quality bushings and ball joints if yours are feeling tired! At ISC Suspension we suggest Whiteline Components.