My control arm in the front is making a clanking noises when I click into gear, while making a right turn. A local mechanic told me it's because the bushings have failed. He also wants to charge me 750 bucks to replace them. He already charged me $45 just for the inspection. I don't know if I should feel like a sucker, because I don't have much experience with auto maintenance, but seems like a rip off considering I can do the same job at a small fraction of the cost.

I've done some research, and I think I've found a way to install and push out the bushings and putting in the new ones, without using power tools or any elaborate equipment. Aside from that, it should be just a matter of nuts and bolts, and being careful about not having the wheel sag to the ground, and break more things.

The thing I need help on right now is the outer diameters for the front and rear bushings. Autozone's website indicate the diameters are 1.65 and 2.48 inches for the bushings. But I saw a youtube video about the same model that says the smaller bushing is 1.25 in diameter. The reason I need this information is because I'm planning to use washers, a metal plumbing nipple and a big C-clamp (or just a long bolt with washers) to squeeze the bushings out, and putting the new ones in. For that, I need to know the size of the washers I need.

Also, I'm trying to decide between http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...er=704964_0_0_
and http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...ntifier=532144. The red ones have been used in a youtube video that I stumbled upon. They work nicely.

Thanks


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by the way, I drive a 02 civic LX

 

I had the same problem with my car, it's definitely the lower control arm bushings, there were nothing left of mine when I replaced them. Not sure what diameter exactly, but if you go to Honda and get them they are guaranteed fit. You will need to heat up the control arm to get the worn bushing out, and I used a press to get the new ones back into place, but I'm sure you could get it to work another way, just might be a little more effort.

 

any input on the regular bushings vs the energy suspension set (the red ones in my link)?

 

energy suspension bushings are urethane and will make for a harsher ride

 

I agree it will probably be stiffer, but in terms of durability, should the energy suspension bushings last longer?