Parts for your 2002 Toyota Land cruiser-Suspension bushes

2002 Toyota Land Cruiser suspension bushes — purpose, wear signs, and when to replace

Based on Toyota’s factory Repair Manual for the 100/105 Series (UZJ100/HDJ100/HZJ105 model range, 1998–2002 revisions), the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, and mainstream fitment catalogues used in Australia and New Zealand service workshops, the 2002 Land Cruiser is fitted with a range of suspension bushes. These include control arm bushes (IFS 100 Series), radius arm bushes (105 live-axle), panhard rod bushes, trailing arm bushes, stabiliser bar (sway bar) D-bushes and link bushes, and shock eye bushes.

On a 2002 Land Cruiser, suspension bushes act like small, hardworking cushions between metal parts. They keep noise and vibration down, help the big wagon track straight, and let the suspension articulate off-road without clunks. Whether it’s an IFS 100 or a live-axle 105, fresh bushes mean tighter steering feel, predictable braking, and even tyre wear.

Common bushes on this model include:

• Front control arm bushes (100 Series IFS) or radius arm bushes (105 live axle)
• Panhard rod and rear trailing arm bushes
• Stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Shock absorber eye bushes

There’s no fixed interval for replacement, but they should be inspected at regular servicing. Typical red flags are wandering on the highway, clunks over corrugations, shudder under brakes, uneven tyre wear, perished or oil-soaked rubber, or excessive movement when levered with a pry bar. High kilometres, towing, beach work, and outback tracks will all accelerate wear. It’s normal to see big improvements around the 150–250,000 km mark when tired bushes are renewed.

When replacing, match the bush to the job. Quality rubber keeps the factory ride and low NVH, ideal for touring. Polyurethane sharpens response and resists deformation, popular for heavy loads, lifts, and frequent off-road use, though it can add a touch more firmness. Always tighten pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bush, and follow the Toyota workshop torque specs. Many techs recommend new cam bolts and nuts on front arms if corrosion is present. After any control arm, panhard, or rear link bush work, a wheel alignment is a must. It’s also smart to recheck torque after a few hundred kilometres.

A well-bushed 100/105 steers cleaner, rides quieter, and keeps the tyres happy. It also helps with WOF/RWC compliance. For a vehicle that’s asked to do everything from city runs to Cape-worthy tracks, fresh bushes are money well spent.

Popular questions

How do you tell if the bushes are worn on a 2002 Land Cruiser?
Look for steering wander, braking shimmy, clunks over bumps, or uneven tyre wear. Visually, cracked, split, or oil-soaked rubber is a giveaway. A mechanic can lever the arm or rod to check for excessive play.

Rubber or polyurethane — which is better for a 100/105?
Rubber keeps the quiet OEM feel and is great for daily use and touring. Polyurethane adds precision and durability under heavy loads and off-road use, with a slight increase in firmness and potential NVH.

Do you need an alignment after replacing bushes?
Yes. Any work on control arms, panhard rod, or rear links can shift geometry. Tighten bolts at ride height, then book a proper alignment to protect tyres and restore straight-line tracking.