What Noises Do Stabilizer Bar Bushings Make?

[LaCaleb]

Once the stabilizer bar bushings age, their performance significantly declines, leading to various abnormal noises during use. Here are the solutions for stabilizer bar bushing issues: Replace the rubber strips on the stabilizer bar: When the stabilizer bar bushings age, the car's chassis may produce abnormal noises. In this case, the owner can replace the old rubber strips on the stabilizer bar with new ones. After replacement, the noises should disappear, resolving the issue. Apply some lubricant: When the bushings produce noises, the owner can spray some lubricant on them to provide lubrication. Afterward, the owner should observe whether the abnormal noises have disappeared while driving.

[DeDelilah]

That clunking noise from the front wheels while driving is really annoying, especially when going over speed bumps. I've experienced something similar – that dull thud at low speed passing neighborhood speed bumps sounds just like knocking on an empty can. The noise becomes more frequent on rainy days, somewhat resembling the sound of wet rubber rubbing against metal. This is usually caused by aged or cracked stabilizer bar bushings. When the rubber hardens and rubs against the metal bar, it creates this abnormal noise. Occasionally, you might also hear slight squeaking sounds when turning, particularly noticeable when slowly steering in parking lots. It's recommended to regularly inspect the bushing condition – they should be checked around 70,000-80,000 km. Replacing the bushings can solve over 90% of such abnormal noise issues.

[LaKayden]

The sound of a problematic stabilizer bar bushing is quite distinctive. The most common is a creaking noise, similar to the friction sound of an old wooden door turning, especially noticeable during the initial cold start and driving. On rough roads, it turns into a continuous humming sound, like rubber bouncing repeatedly. Sometimes, there's a sudden dull thud from the front of the car, which happens when the bushing completely fails and metal parts collide directly. Remember to inspect the bushing position with a flashlight during chassis checks. If cracks or yellow lubricant leakage are visible, it's time for a replacement—otherwise, it can wear out the entire suspension system.

[StCora]

In my experience, the noise from worn sway bar bushings progresses through three stages. Initially, there's a slight squeaking sound only noticeable when going over bumps. Then it develops into a metallic clunking noise, and finally becomes a continuous squeal. These sounds are particularly prominent in quiet environments – you can hear them clearly when turning in underground parking garages. The noise occurs because aged rubber loses its cushioning effect, allowing the metal bar to directly impact the frame on rough roads. For self-diagnosis, try braking hard over speed bumps – if the noise intensifies, it's likely the bushings. I recommend checking them every 50,000 km. Replacing them only costs a few dozen yuan.