Mountings & Bushes by Quinton Hazell

What are mountings and bushes?

Mountings and bushes are components used to attach parts securely in your vehicle. Mountings and bushes are designed to keep their associated parts in place and in many cases provide shock absorption and articulation. There are many locations in a vehicle where mountings and bushes are used, especially where metal parts join together and require a rubber separation to prevent metal-on-metal damage.

How do I choose the correct mounting and bushes?

Finding the correct mounting and bushes is best done by cross referencing the original part number (OE). Although some of these parts look similar there can be subtle differences which may lead to them either not fitting correctly or failing prematurely. If you are not able to obtain and cross reference the OE part number here are some things to consider when looking for correct replacements:

• Number of gears (i.e. 5 speed or 6 speed, manual, automatic etc)

• Factory modifications (sports pack, levelling suspension, specific shape etc)

• Transmission type / transmission code

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made)

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• Standard, hydraulic or electric mounting

• Diameter or other significant measure

What brand of mountings and bushes should I choose?

There are a number of brands available in the aftermarket. Some brands such as Bosch manufacture mountings and bushes for the original car brands however there are other high quality brands that meet or exceed the original specifications. Brands such as Blue Print, Delphi, Borg & Beck and Febi offer long warranties to take the worry out of choosing a quality part.

How can I tell my mountings or bushes needs replacing?

Often a visual check will show if the mounting or bushes need to be replaced. We always recommend you speak to a qualified mechanic if you are not sure. Some of the symptoms of a faulty mounting or bushes are:

• There is a knocking noise when turning or going over bumps

• The rubber has become split/damaged on the mounting or bush

• There is loose play around the mounting or bush

• There is fluid leaking from the mounting (hydraulic)

• The mounting is corroded