Parts for your 2002 Holden Commodore-Suspension bushes

2002 Holden Commodore Suspension Bushes

Suspension bushes are absolutely fitted to the 2002 Holden Commodore. Technical references including the GM Holden VX Series II and VY Series Service Manuals, as well as Gregory’s/ Haynes VT–VZ workshop manuals, list multiple rubber bushes throughout the front and rear suspension. Whether it’s a VX Series II (early 2002) or a VY (late 2002 onward), the Commodore relies on bushes to isolate noise and vibration, control geometry under braking and cornering, and keep the ride comfortable without sacrificing road feel.

These bushes are pressed into arms and brackets to provide a flexible pivot between metal components. They reduce harshness, maintain wheel alignment angles, and help the tyres stay planted. Over time, heat, age, oil contamination, and Aussie/Kiwi road conditions harden or crack the rubber, which leads to clunks, wandering, and uneven tyre wear. On IRS sedans, rear cradle and control arm bushes are common wear points, on live-axle wagons/utes, trailing arm and panhard rod bushes cop the brunt of the work.

• Front lower control arm bushes (including the big rear “hydraulic” style bush)
• Caster/strut rod bushes
• Sway bar (stabiliser) D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear control arm and subframe/cradle bushes (IRS) or trailing arm/panhard bushes (live axle)

As part of routine servicing, bushes should be inspected every 20,000–40,000 km or annually, and whenever tyres are replaced or an alignment is performed. Replacement is recommended when there’s visible cracking or splitting, excessive movement under pry-bar test, or any geometry-related symptoms. After any bush work, a proper four-wheel alignment is a must to dial the Commodore back to spec.

• Tell-tales: front-end clunking, brake shudder, steering wander, rear-end toe change “steer,” and scalloped tyres
• Torque all fasteners at normal ride height so bushes aren’t preloaded
• Choose quality OE-style rubber for comfort, or polyurethane for sharper response and longevity (with a bit more NVH)
• Inspect associated parts—ball joints, sway links, and mounts—to avoid doing the job twice

Well-kept bushes restore the Commodore’s confident turn-in and straight-line stability, make the brakes feel more consistent, and save tyres from premature wear—worth the effort for anyone who wants their 2002 Holden to drive “as intended.”

What suspension bushes are on a 2002 Holden Commodore?

Front lower control arm bushes, caster/strut rod bushes, sway bar D and link bushes, and either rear IRS control arm and cradle bushes (most sedans) or trailing arm and panhard rod bushes on live-axle wagons/utes. Exact fitment depends on VX Series II vs VY and body style.

How often should Commodore suspension bushes be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval—condition-based is best. Inspect every 20,000–40,000 km. Many last well past 100,000 km, but heat, fluid leaks, load carrying, and rough roads can accelerate wear. Replace when cracked, torn, or showing excessive movement, and always follow up with a wheel alignment.

Should they use rubber or polyurethane bushes?

OE-style rubber keeps factory comfort and NVH low—great for daily use. Polyurethane sharpens response and can last longer, but may add a little vibration or noise. For mixed driving, a combo works well: rubber in high-NVH locations (e.g., front rear-lower-arm bush), poly in sway bar links or less NVH-sensitive spots.