Parts for your 1996 Ford Falcon-Suspension bushes

1996 Ford Falcon suspension bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Suspension bushes are absolutely relevant and factory-fitted on the 1996 Ford Falcon. Technical sources including the Ford EF/EL Falcon Workshop Manual (1994–1998) and Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual No. 266 identify rubber bushes at the front lower control arms, radius/strut rods and anti-roll bar (sway bar) mounts and links. Those same manuals outline rear trailing-arm bushes for the common live-axle rear end, and pivot/toe link bushes for IRS variants fitted to some EL models. Aftermarket application catalogues from brands like SuperPro and Nolathane list multiple bush kits for 1996 Falcons, further confirming fitment across the range.

On a 1996 Falcon, bushes act like the suspension’s cartilage. They isolate noise and vibration, let the arms articulate smoothly and keep wheel alignment steady under braking, cornering and over bumps. Fresh bushes help the car track straight, feel settled mid-corner and save tyres from scrubbing out. Worn ones allow movement that shows up as vague steering, front-end clunks, brake shudder, tramlining and uneven tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the bushes at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for perished rubber, cracking, separation from the sleeves and oil contamination (spilled engine or power steering fluid can accelerate deterioration). Pay special attention to the front lower-control-arm rear bush, radius/strut rod bushes and the sway bar D-bushes and links, at the rear, check the trailing-arm bushes on live-axle cars, or IRS pivot and toe link bushes on higher-spec models. If there’s steering wander or brake shudder that rotor machining doesn’t fix, tired bushes are often the culprit.

Replacement is straightforward with the right tools. Press-fit bushes should be installed with proper support and oriented as per the workshop manual. Always torque suspension fasteners at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t pre-loaded. Any time control arm, radius rod or toe-control bushes are replaced, a wheel alignment is recommended. Many owners choose to replace bushes in axle sets to keep the handling balanced. OE-style rubber gives the best ride and NVH for daily duties, performance polyurethane tightens response and lasts well, but can transmit a touch more road feel. If fitting polyurethane, use the supplied grease to prevent squeaks. With clean hardware, fresh lock-nuts and correct torque, the Falcon’s suspension will feel tidy again and tyres will wear evenly.

• Common 1996 Falcon bushes to check: front lower control arm (front/rear), radius/strut rod, sway bar D-bushes and links, rear trailing arm (live axle) or IRS pivot and toe link (where fitted).

Popular questions about 1996 Ford Falcon suspension bushes

How long do the bushes typically last?
Service inspections every 10,000–15,000 km keep things in check, but lifespan varies with roads and loads. Many Falcons make it 100,000–200,000 km before the main control-arm or radius-rod bushes need attention. Cars that tow, carry heavy loads or see rough roads can need them sooner.

Should the car get an alignment after bush replacement?
Yes. Any time control arm, radius-rod or rear toe/track components are disturbed, a wheel alignment is worthwhile. Fresh bushes can shift static camber/caster/toe back towards spec, and an alignment locks in even tyre wear and straight tracking.

Rubber or polyurethane for a daily-driven Falcon?
OE-style rubber keeps the classic Falcon ride, isolates vibration well and suits commuters. Quality polyurethane sharpens steering and longevity, great for enthusiastic driving. Many owners mix: rubber in high-NVH spots (e.g., sway bar D-bushes) and poly in high-load locations (e.g., radius-rod bushes) for a tidy balance.