what are the a frame bushings for in my 4x4 tacoma?

just want to know what they are and why i need new ones....is this where all the squeeking comes from when the weather is hot?

 

do you mean the lower control arm bushing?

 

i think so...when the local shop jacjed it up to replace a ball joint they said they were all moving and needed to be replaced

 

ah okay. yeah they wear out overtime. I need to replace mine as well. they will squeak when worn out. you might also get a thud feeling when hitting bumps when they are very worn. it's a good idea to replace the lower ball joint while your replacing bushings for peace of mind as well

 

how many miles are on your rig?

 

325000 miles....what do the bushings do? or maybe i should ask what are they for? i cant seem to get that answer... i am a granny lady and i like to know about a repair before i take it in....the shop i use has been good to me but i have been burned in the past and i have found a little knowledge goes a long way towards getting a good deal. and getting a good repair job. thanks so much for your time

 

the control arm bushing twist when turning and hitting bumps in the road. they keep the front end aligned and keep you shocks in place when driving. when they are worn out the movement in them becomes greater which allows your front suspension to get loose and wear out parts prematurely.

 

Think of them like rubber bumpers on a door stop. If your door stop was only metal it would make a big bang when it stopped against the wall. The rubber softens the impact. Get a second opinion, but at 300K it is not a surprise the rubber is shot. Also ask what the cost is for urethane bushings. They last longer and may be worth the extra cost if you are putting money into the truck.

 

thank you so much