How Worn Control Arm Bushings Impact Tire Wear
December 16, 2024
Worn control arm bushings can quietly but significantly impact your vehicle’s suspension, ultimately leading to premature tire wear. Control arm bushings work similarly to cartilage in human joints, providing a flexible cushion between various suspension components. When these bushings wear out, however, they lose their ability to stabilize and align the control arm correctly. This misalignment can create issues that cause uneven and accelerated tire wear, often resulting in costly repairs down the line.
Effects on Tire Wear
- Misaligned Wheels
Worn bushings allow the control arm to shift, throwing off the wheel’s alignment. This can result in uneven tire wear, most commonly observed on the outer edges of the tire. - Premature Tire Degradation
Misaligned wheels place additional stress on tires, leading to faster wear. Drivers may find themselves needing tire replacements more frequently than if the wheels were properly aligned.
Common Causes of Premature Bushing Wear
- Poor Road Conditions
Regular encounters with rough or pothole-ridden roads put additional strain on bushings, which accelerates their wear and tear. - Weather Exposure
Road salt used for icy conditions and persistent heat can damage bushings over time, making regular inspections especially important for vehicles used in these environments.
Replacement Considerations
If you notice signs like cracking or excessive play in the bushings, it may be time to replace them to avoid further damage. At Wayside Garage, we recommend checking the suspension as part of your annual comprehensive inspection to catch early signs of wear. With our maintenance plan, we can ensure that your suspension components, including control arm bushings, stay in top shape for a smoother, safer ride.
Tips for Keeping Control Arm Bushings and Tires in Shape
- Routine Inspections
Incorporating suspension inspections with every annual visit helps identify worn bushings before they affect other parts. Wayside Garage offers a comprehensive inspection every 10,000 miles, which includes assessing alignment and tire health. - Regular Wheel Alignments
Misalignment is a primary cause of uneven tire wear, so regular alignment checks are essential. Following our recommended service schedule for a yearly wheel alignment helps maintain your tires and prevents control arm bushing damage.
Why Choose Wayside Garage for Suspension Maintenance?
Our skilled technicians understand the importance of a well-maintained suspension system. From worn bushings to wheel alignment, we provide thorough diagnostics to keep your vehicle safe and running smoothly. Our commitment to quality and customer care makes Wayside Garage your trusted choice for all maintenance needs.
Stay cool this summer with professional car A/C repair in Seaside, CA. Wayside Garage offers expert diagnostics, recharge service, and free pick-up and delivery.
Discover top-notch transmission repair at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA. Ensure smooth driving with our expert team. Schedule an online appointment now!
How Do I Know If My Tires Are Safe to Drive On? Tips from Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA for National Tire Safety Week Tire safety is one of those things drivers don’t think about — until it’s too late. But as a local shop owner with over 38 years under the hood, I can tell you: the health of your tires has a major impact on how your car handles, brakes, and keeps you safe out on the road. That’s why we’re proud to support National Tire Safety Week 2025 , happening June 30 to July 4 — an annual effort from the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association to educate drivers on proper tire maintenance. And right here at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA , we’re doing our part to help folks check in before they check out for summer road trips. 🚗 So, How Do You Know If Your Tires Are Safe? It really comes down to four key checks — easy to remember with the acronym P.A.R.T .: 🔹 P = Pressure Low tire pressure leads to poor fuel economy, sluggish handling, and faster wear. We recommend checking pressure monthly, especially before long drives. Always check when your tires are “cold” — that means before you hit the road, not after a grocery run. 🔹 A = Alignment If your car’s drifting left or right, or your steering feels off, your alignment may be out of whack. Misalignment causes uneven wear, hurts handling, and can shorten your tire life — not to mention your patience. 🔹 R = Rotation You’d be surprised how fast tires can wear unevenly. We rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles to make sure all four tires wear evenly. This extends tire life and keeps your vehicle handling the way it should. 🔹 T = Tread Tires need grip, especially in wet or winding road conditions. We recommend checking tread depth monthly. If your tire tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch or less — or if you see visible cracking or bulges — it’s time to replace them. 💡 Quick Tip: Stick a penny into your tread, Lincoln's head down. If you can see all of Honest Abe's noggin, your tread is too low. 🛠️ What We Offer at Wayside Garage, Seaside CA We’ve been serving the Seaside community for nearly four decades, and tire safety is something we don’t take lightly. Our tire services include: Tire pressure checks and adjustments Computerized wheel alignments Tire rotations and balancing Tread inspections and honest tire replacement recommendations Tire age checks — rubber breaks down over time, even if your tread looks good. Most tires should be replaced every 6 years, regardless of wear. Whether you're planning a road trip or just commuting to work, swing by Wayside Garage in Seaside for a tire check. No pressure (pun intended) — just experienced, straightforward service you can trust. ❓ FAQ: Tire Safety Questions We Hear All the Time Q: How do I know when my tires need to be replaced? A: If your tread is worn past 2/32", your tires are over six years old, or you notice bulges or cracks — it’s time to replace them. Q: How often should I rotate my tires? A: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. We include this as part of routine maintenance at Wayside Garage. Q: Can alignment affect tire wear that quickly? A: Absolutely. One pothole or curb can knock alignment off. If your car pulls or your tires wear unevenly, it’s time for an alignment check. Q: What tire pressure should I use? A: Check your driver’s door sticker or owner’s manual — never use the number printed on the tire itself. 🏁 Drive Into Summer with Confidence This National Tire Safety Week , don’t just guess your tires are safe — know they are. Bring your vehicle to Wayside Garage in Seaside, California and let our experienced team give your tires a full safety check. You’ll leave knowing your pressure’s perfect, your alignment’s dialed in, and your tread is road-trip ready. Stop by or schedule your service today — we’re here to keep you rolling, safely.
Support breast cancer research with Wayside Garage! Get free brake pads in October and help fund the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine. Call now to book!
Keep your engine running smoothly with regular oil changes at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA. Learn how often to change your oil and book your service today!
Check engine light on in Seaside or Monterey, CA? Discover common causes and get expert diagnostics at Wayside Garage. Call now to book your service!
Car battery keeps dying? From old batteries to alternator issues, find out why and get expert help at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA. Call us for battery testing and replacement!
Don’t get stranded with a dead battery! Learn how to prevent battery issues and keep your car running smoothly. Schedule a battery check at Wayside Garage today!
Thinking of buying new? Discover why maintaining your current car is a smarter financial choice. Save money with expert care at Wayside Garage!
Is your car pulling to one side or making squealing noises? Discover the warning signs of worn brakes and get a professional inspection at Wayside Garage today!
