Ugh.

by "BaconSandwich is tasty." (baconsandwich)
Published 08/16/2017 at 20:49

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STARS: 1

That feeling when you get the repair bill, and it’s $150-$200 higher than you expected. And that didn’t include an alignment because they found other issues.

I took the Civic in today to get the lower ball joints and tie rod ends replaced. It turns out the following should also supposedly be repaired:
- Lower control arm bushings (despite having the entire control arms - bushings and all replaced two years ago)
- Strut mounts on the front (replaced roughly 5-6 years ago when I did the struts)
- Stabilizer end links supposedly need replacement (but not critical)

The only ones that really bother me are the lower control arm bushings. I was pretty sure that they are press fit into the control arms, and they come as one unit. But looking on Rock Auto, it looks like there are a number of bushing kits, and there’s a number of people online that have done it. It does require a hydraulic press (or at least a big mechanic’s vice) to press the bushings back in.

Also, there’s oddly enough a kit: http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=1137431&cc=1373217&jsn=381

Although given that they look like solid bushings, that might make for a rougher ride. It might be cheaper to get the kit, though.

I’m pricing out parts on Rock Auto, and at least the parts aren’t too expensive. I’ve already got a pair of spring compressors, so replacing the strut mount doesn’t scare me. The only thing on the list that scares me a bit is the lower control arm bushings. Has anyone here done them before?

Related video of a guy replacing said bushings:

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Replies (6)

"AMGtech - now with more recalls!" (amgtech)
08/16/2017 at 21:32, STARS: 1

Bushings are super easy. Provided you have the right tools. Otherwise, eff that shite. As far as a right ride with solid bushings, not necessarily. When they appear solid they’re typically actually fluid filled. Most modern bushings are this way.

"Junkrat aka Rick Sanchez: Fury Road Edition" (realasabass)
08/16/2017 at 21:41, STARS: 0

I would say you can look for a used harbor freight press. They are only like 100 new, so I’m sure one could be had on craigslist pretty cheap. A fellow could buy one, use it, and then sell it for what he paid for it.

"BaconSandwich is tasty." (baconsandwich)
08/16/2017 at 21:46, STARS: 0

When you say the right tools, what all does that entail?

"ITA97, now with more Jag @ opposite-lock.com" (ita97)
08/16/2017 at 22:31, STARS: 0

The other option for bushings is polyurethane, which are DIY friendly. You’ll get a nice handling upgrade, but the ride will stiffen up some. The most noticable change to the ride is that small imperfections like expansion joints on concrete and washboard on dirt roads are more notice.

With poly you can burn out the old bushings real easy, and the new ones are pressed in with no more than a tap with a rubber mallet.

"His Stigness" (HisStigness)
08/17/2017 at 00:09, STARS: 0

http://www.tooltopia.com/schley-11100.aspx

"Jayvincent" (jayvincent)
08/17/2017 at 06:41, STARS: 0

This is good Oppo.

I feel your pain, but my stomach really clenches when the repair bill comes back 2x what I was hoping for...