Oil Change Visit Turns Into Important Suspension Repair at Precision Auto
- Devon Rodriguez
- Jan 26
- 5 min read
At Precision Auto Repair in West Springfield MA, many serious vehicle issues are caught during routine maintenance visits. This Subaru Forester is a perfect example of why regular inspections matter and how catching problems early can help keep our customers safe and save money long term.
This customer is a regular at our shop and takes great care of their vehicle. In the past, we had already noted that the front suspension bushings were starting to wear and could become a concern in the future. At the time, there was no immediate safety issue, just something to keep an eye on.
Fast forward to this visit. The Subaru came in for a simple oil change. During our standard inspection process, we found that the previously noted suspension components had now developed noticeable play. What started as a future concern had officially turned into a current problem.
This blog walks through the customer concern, what we found, why it matters, and how our technician Steve fixed the issue to restore safety and ride quality.
The Customer Concern
A Routine Oil Change With No Initial Symptoms.
The customer did not come in with complaints of noise, vibration, or poor handling. The vehicle was driving normally in their day to day use. This visit was scheduled strictly for an oil change.
This is common. Suspension issues often develop slowly and quietly. Many drivers do not notice a problem until the wear becomes severe. That is why inspections during routine maintenance are so important to avoid larger suspension repairs.
Because this customer services their vehicle regularly at Precision Auto Repair, we already had a history of the vehicle and knew what areas needed monitoring.
Our Inspection Process
Why Regular Inspections Matter.
Every vehicle that comes into Precision Auto Repair in West Springfield MA goes through a thorough inspection, even for basic services like oil changes.
This allows us to spot developing problems early before they turn into breakdowns or safety concerns.
During this inspection, our technician checked the front suspension components and immediately noticed excessive movement in the front control arms and sway bar links.
The Find
Severely Worn Control Arm Bushings and Sway Bar Links. Once the vehicle was lifted and inspected more closely, the issue became very clear.
The front control arm bushings were severely deteriorated. The rubber had broken down to the point where it was crumbling apart. Pieces of the bushing were falling away and no longer doing their job.
The sway bar links also showed wear and looseness, contributing to instability in the front suspension.
The condition of the bushings was extreme. They were dry rotted, cracked, and falling apart. At this stage, the suspension could no longer properly absorb road impacts or keep the wheels stable during driving.
We documented the condition with photos and videos to clearly show the customer what was happening underneath their vehicle.
What Control Arm Bushings Do
Control arm bushings play a critical role in your vehicle’s suspension system. They connect the control arms to the frame of the vehicle and allow for controlled movement while absorbing road vibrations.
When bushings are healthy, they help provide a smooth ride, stable steering, and even tire wear.
When bushings fail, several problems can occur, including
Clunking noises over bumps
Loose or wandering steering
Uneven or rapid tire wear
Poor handling and reduced stability
Increased stress on other suspension components
In this Subaru Forester, the bushings had deteriorated to the point where metal movement was beginning to occur. This is when safety becomes a concern!
Why This Issue Got Worse Over Time
Earlier inspections had already shown early signs of wear. At that stage, the bushings were still functional, but aging.
Rubber suspension components naturally degrade over time due to heat, road salt, moisture, and normal driving conditions. New England weather plays a big role in accelerating this wear.
Eventually, the rubber loses its flexibility and strength. Once that happens, failure can progress quickly. This is exactly what happened with this Forester. What was once a future concern had now become active play in the suspension.
The Repair and How We Fixed the Issue Properly
Our technician Steve performed the repair. Based on the condition of the components, replacing the front control arms was the best and safest solution.
While individual bushings can sometimes be replaced, the level of deterioration made complete control arm replacement the most reliable option.
Steve replaced the worn front control arms with new units that included fresh bushings. He also replaced the sway bar links to ensure the suspension system was fully restored and working together as designed.
After installation, the suspension was checked to confirm proper fitment and movement. This repair restored stability, eliminated unwanted play, and improved overall ride quality.
The Result
With the new control arms and sway bar links installed, the Subaru Forester now has
Proper suspension stability
Eliminated play and looseness
Improved steering response
Reduced stress on tires and other components
A safer and more predictable driving experience
This repair addressed the issue before it could lead to more serious problems like accelerated tire wear or loss of control during sudden maneuvers.
Why Trust Precision Auto Repair in West Springfield MA
At Precision Auto Repair, we believe in transparency, education, and preventative maintenance. This repair is a perfect example of how we work with our customers long term.
We did not push a repair before it was necessary. We monitored the issue, documented the changes over time, and addressed it once it became a real concern.
Our customers trust us because we show them what we find, explain why it matters, and help them make informed decisions about their vehicles.
Common Signs Your Suspension May Need Attention
Even if your vehicle feels fine, suspension issues can still be developing. Some signs to watch for include...
Clunking or knocking sounds
Steering that feels loose or unstable
Uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulling to one side
A rough or bouncy ride
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to have your vehicle inspected sooner rather than later.
Schedule an Inspection at Precision Auto Repair
Whether you are coming in for an oil change or experiencing a specific concern, inspections are one of the most important services we provide!
Catching problems early can prevent costly repairs and help keep you safe on the road.
If you are looking for honest auto repair in West Springfield MA, our team at Precision Auto Repair is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your next oil change or suspension inspection and let us help keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly!
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