Parts for your 2004 Ford Falcon-Suspension bushes

2004 Ford Falcon suspension bushes: what they do and when to replace them

Suspension bushes are absolutely used on the 2004 Ford Falcon (BA series). Technical sources such as the Ford BA Falcon workshop manual, OEM parts catalogues, and well-known Australian bush manufacturers’ fitment guides confirm multiple rubber bushes throughout the front and rear suspension. That makes suspension bushes directly relevant to ride comfort, steering feel, and noise control on this model.

On a BA Falcon, bushes are the small rubber or elastomer sleeves that isolate metal components. They allow controlled flex between arms, mounts and the body, soaking up vibration and sharpening handling. Typical locations include:

• Front lower control arm inner bushes (the large rear “hydraulic” bush and the front pivot bush)
• Front sway bar D-bushes and link bushes
• Rear: control blade/trailing arm front bush, differential mount bush, IRS upper/lower arm inner bushes, toe link bushes, and rear cradle/subframe mounts (sedans with Control Blade IRS)
• Ute and wagon variants with live axle: trailing arm/leaf spring eye and shackle bushes, plus sway bar bushes where fitted

Over time, heat, road grime, and fluid exposure cause bushes to crack, soften, or separate. As part of regular servicing, they should be inspected every 15,000 km or 12 months. Look for torn rubber, off-centre sleeves, oil swelling, and excessive movement with a lever. Common BA pain points are the front lower control arm rear bush and the rear differential bush, when worn they can cause steering vagueness and the classic rear “thump” on take-off.

Signs that the Falcon’s bushes are due:

• Clunks over bumps, thuds on acceleration or shifting from Drive to Reverse
• Wandering or brake shimmy, vague steering on-centre
• Uneven tyre wear and poor straight-line stability

When replacing, choose quality OEM-style rubber for factory comfort, or polyurethane/HD rubber for sharper response and better durability (expect a little more NVH with firmer options). Always torque pivot bolts at normal ride height, replace any single-use nuts/bolts, and book a wheel alignment straight after—bush changes alter geometry. Press tools or a hydraulic press are usually required, a professional fitment saves time and protects arms and subframes. It’s smart to replace bushes in pairs across an axle and to check related parts like ball joints and sway bar links at the same time.

Done right, fresh suspension bushes restore that planted Falcon feel, reduce tyre costs, and keep the big Aussie sedan riding quietly for many more kilometres.

• How long do suspension bushes last on a 2004 Falcon?

  Service life varies with driving and road conditions, but 80,000–150,000 km is typical. The front lower control arm rear bush and the rear differential bush often wear earlier, especially on cars that tow or see rough roads.

• Rubber or polyurethane bushes—what’s better for a BA?

  OEM-style rubber keeps factory comfort and low noise. Polyurethane or heavy-duty rubber sharpens response and usually lasts longer, but may add a little vibration and harshness. Many owners mix: HD diff and control arm bushes, rubber for sway bar D-bushes.

• Do you need a wheel alignment after bush replacement?

  Yes. Changing bushes can shift camber, caster, and toe. A proper alignment prevents odd tyre wear and restores straight-line stability and steering feel.