Upper trailing suspension arm bushes

[geecom]

Hi everyone

I've got a S4 on a 05 plate, and its done about 70k.

For a while now, there has been a vibration as you drive up through from about 30 up. I had the wheel balancing double checked, but that came back fine.

I had my local Audi dealer check it out, and they have told me that both front upper trailing suspension arm bushes are worn and that this was more than likely the cause of the vibration. Also, the bushes dont come separately so they need new suspension arms.

I thankfully bought the Plan A (ie pretty much everything is covered) extended warranty from Inchape when I bought the car in Dec 07. However, they have told the garage that the arms wouldn't be covered, as they class this as wear and tear. On the flip side, Audi stated that their warranty would cover this. If the warranty doesn't cover it, its going to cost me £567, which before Christmas I can ill afford.

I wanted to get people's opinion on this please. Has anyone had their bushes wear out, and needed them replaced?

Thanks very much for any input.

Gee

[nihc]

Hi Gee,

Is the vibration related to the engine speed or road speed?
If it changes with engine speed it's probably an engine mount. Has the vibration just happened or has it been getting worse over time?

regards, Chris.

[geecom]

The vibration is related to road speed, rather than revs.

It seems to happen at about 20/30/40/50 mph, as you are slowly accelerating up. Its less obvious if you are accelerating hard. Also, the vibration seems to be throughout the car, rather than just through the steering wheel.

It certainly seems to have become worse over time.

[BlingBling]

The suspension bushes etc are not normally covered by warranty. They are classed as wear and tear items. If they refuseot replace them under warranty go and seek an indie. It will save you up to 50%.

Good luck

[geecom]

Thanks BlingBling.

I phoned up the warranty company yesterday, and they have agreed to send out an engineer to inspect the bushes.

Whilst I can understand that they would wear gradually over time, to have to be replaced at 70k odd does seem rather premature. Has anyone else had to replace their suspension arms, and if so, at what sort of mileage?

Cheers

[BlingBling]

They were an advisory on my last MOT, March 09. Mileage is 64K. I will look to replace then in the new year.