Suspension Control Arm Bushing Guide for 1994-1998 Buick Skylark
Address clunking noises and sloppy steering in your Skylark by understanding and choosing the right control arm bushings.
- Symptoms often include clunking noises, steering wander, and uneven tire wear.
- Replacing the entire control arm assembly is often easier and more cost-effective than pressing out individual bushings.
- Choose quality aftermarket brands like ACDelco Professional, Moog, or Mevotech Supreme for reliable performance.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing control arm bushings to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
Is Your Skylark Making Noise Over Bumps?
If you're hearing a clunking, squeaking, or groaning noise from the front end of your 1994-1998 Skylark, especially when going over bumps or making turns, there's a good chance your control arm bushings have failed. These rubber parts dry out, crack, and wear down over time, allowing for excessive movement in the suspension. This can lead to a number of problems you might feel from the driver's seat.
Symptoms of Worn Control Arm Bushings
🎬 Watch this video to see common symptoms and replacement costs.- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. The sound comes from the worn bushing allowing the metal control arm to hit the frame, especially over bumps or during hard braking.
- Steering Wander: Your car may pull to one side, and you might find yourself constantly correcting the steering wheel to keep it straight. This happens because the worn bushings can't hold the wheel alignment settings.
- Vibrations: A worn bushing can cause vibrations that you feel in the steering wheel, which may get worse with speed.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Check your front tires. If the inside or outside edges are wearing out faster than the center, bad bushings could be the cause by throwing off the alignment.
A Note on Replacement: Bushing vs. Full Control Arm
Replacing just the bushing is possible, but it requires a hydraulic press 🎬 Learn how to replace just the bushings using this method. or a special tool to push the old bushing out and press the new one in. This can be difficult and time-consuming. For many Skylark owners and mechanics, it is often easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire control arm assembly 🎬 See how to replace the full control arm assembly yourself.. A new control arm comes with new bushings and a new ball joint already installed, saving significant labor time and addressing multiple potential wear points at once.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bushing Brand
For the 1994-1998 Buick Skylark, you have several solid aftermarket options. Since these vehicles are older, aftermarket parts are often more readily available and affordable than OEM parts, with quality that can meet or exceed the original specifications.
| Brand | Tier & Quality Assessment | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Moog | Premium Aftermarket: Moog is well-regarded, and their "Problem Solver" line often includes design improvements. However, some users have noted a decline in quality in recent years, so it's best to verify you are getting their higher-end parts. Many parts are greaseable, which can extend their lifespan with regular maintenance. | Owners looking for a potentially upgraded design who are willing to perform periodic greasing. |
| ACDelco | OEM-Equivalent / Premium Aftermarket: ACDelco is GM's parts division, but they offer different lines. Their "Professional" series is generally considered a high-quality replacement, while the "Advantage" series is more budget-focused. For suspension parts, sticking with the Professional line is recommended. | Owners who want a part that closely matches the original fit and function. |
| Mevotech | Multiple Tiers (Budget to Premium): Mevotech offers different product lines, such as the standard "Supreme" and the heavy-duty "TTX" (Tough Terrain Xtreme). The Supreme line is often seen as a good quality, beefier-than-OEM option, while TTX is for heavy-duty use. Like Moog, many of their parts are greaseable. | Owners who want a choice between a solid standard replacement (Supreme) or a heavy-duty upgrade (TTX). |
Pro Tip: Regardless of the brand you choose, consider parts that are greaseable. The ability to add fresh grease every oil change can significantly prolong the life of the bushings and ball joints by flushing out contaminants.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
Searches for the 1994-1998 Buick Skylark and its GM N-Body sister cars (Oldsmobile Achieva, Pontiac Grand Am) did not reveal any specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) directly for control arm bushings. However, general TSBs for other GM vehicles mention front-end noises caused by suspension bushings contacting metal components under braking, with the recommended fix being the replacement of the control arms. The most common issues reported by owners in forums are the typical wear-and-tear symptoms like clunking and squeaking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace just one control arm bushing?
Yes, but it's not always recommended. If one bushing is worn out, the others (and the ball joint) are likely near the end of their life too. Replacing the entire control arm assembly is often a better long-term repair. Also, suspension parts should always be replaced in pairs (both left and right sides) to ensure even handling and performance.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the bushings?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing control arm bushings or the entire control arm will alter your vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is necessary to prevent rapid tire wear and ensure the vehicle drives straight.
Is this a good DIY project for a beginner?
Replacing just the bushings is an advanced DIY job that requires a press. Replacing the entire control arm is more manageable for an intermediate DIYer but still requires proper tools, including a jack, jack stands, a good socket set, and a torque wrench. Separating the ball joint from the steering knuckle can be challenging. If you are not comfortable with suspension work, it is best to leave this job to a professional mechanic.
What is the difference between rubber and polyurethane bushings?
Rubber bushings, like the original parts, provide a quieter and more comfortable ride by absorbing more vibration. Polyurethane bushings are stiffer, which can improve handling and steering response, but they may transmit more road noise and vibration into the cabin. For a daily driven Skylark, high-quality rubber bushings are usually the best choice.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 1994-1998 Buick Skylark uses a front lower control arm with two bushings: a vertical bushing at the rear pivot and a horizontal bushing at the front pivot. The vehicle does not have an upper control arm as it uses a MacPherson strut front suspension design.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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