Parts for your 2006 Ford Falcon-Suspension bushes

2006 Ford Falcon suspension bushes — what they do and how to look after them

Suspension bushes absolutely are used on the 2006 Ford Falcon. Technical sources including the Ford BF Falcon Workshop Manual (2005–2008, Sections 204-00 Front Suspension and 205-00 Rear Suspension), the Ford Australia BA/BF parts catalogue, and aftermarket application guides from Nolathane and SuperPro list multiple rubber bushes across the Falcon’s front lower control arms, sway bars, and rear suspension. Sedans run the Control Blade IRS with control arm and differential mounting bushes, while utes use a live rear axle with leaf-spring eye and shackle bushes. So suspension bushes are relevant, fitted, and central to how a 2006 Falcon rides and handles.

On this Falcon, bushes isolate vibration, keep noise down, and allow controlled movement of arms and links so the wheels stay pointed where they should. They’re the flexible joints that hold alignment under braking, bumps, and cornering. Good bushes mean a quieter cabin, more consistent tyre contact, and predictable steering.

Common wear points called out in the above sources include the front lower control arm rear “hydraulic” bush (it cracks or leaks fluid), sway bar D-bushes and link bushes (knocks over bumps), the rear differential mount bush on IRS sedans (clunk on take-off), and the rear control arm/control blade bushes. On utes, leaf-spring eye and shackle bushes cop plenty of load and can oval out.

• Inspection: Every 20,000 km or 12 months, or sooner if there are clunks, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear. Look for splits, perishing, oil-soak, or excessive movement with a pry bar. A road test for knock, shudder, or tramlining helps.
• Replacement: Do bushes in axle pairs when practical, then get a four-wheel alignment (front toe/camber on sedans, rear camber/toe on IRS models where adjustable). Torque all pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the new bushes.
• Parts choice: OE-style rubber keeps NVH low and suits daily use. Quality polyurethane can sharpen response and last longer, but may add a touch of vibration or squeak if not lubricated as specified.
• Tools and time: Many bushes need a press or dedicated tools. Expect 1–3 hours per corner depending on which bush. Some bolts are single-use, follow workshop manual torque specs and procedures.

Keeping bushes healthy helps the Falcon pass a WOF/roadworthy, protects tyres, and restores that confident Aussie large-car feel.

Popular questions about 2006 Ford Falcon suspension bushes

What are the signs the bushes are worn on a 2006 Falcon?
Typical clues are clunks over speed bumps, steering wander, brake shudder or nibble, rear-end thud on take-off, and uneven or rapid tyre wear. Visual checks may show cracked or torn rubber, or leaking fluid from the front hydrobush. If the car feels floaty or “tramlines”, it’s time for an inspection.

How often should they be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval — many last 80,000–150,000 km depending on roads, loads, and driving style. Inspect at each service, and replace when there’s play, cracking, or failed alignment retention. After replacement, always get a proper wheel alignment.

Rubber or polyurethane — which is better for a Falcon?
For daily driving and lowest NVH, quality rubber is hard to beat. For sharper response and durability — especially for towing or spirited use — polyurethane can work well, with the trade-off of slightly more vibration and the need for correct lubrication where specified.