What impact does a worn control arm bushing have on suspension?

A worn control arm bushing can significantly impact the suspension system's performance. These bushings play a critical role in isolating the vehicle's chassis from the suspension components, allowing for controlled movement while absorbing shocks from the road. When the bushings wear out, their ability to dampen vibrations and maintain proper positioning of the control arms diminishes.

This deterioration often results in poor alignment, which can cause a variety of handling issues, such as uneven tire wear, poor steering response, and loss of vehicle stability. Additionally, the lack of proper cushioning from worn bushings can lead to increased noise and vibrations being transmitted into the cabin, making the ride less comfortable.

While some might assume that worn bushings enhance ride comfort, it is actually the opposite; they can lead to an increase in noise and vibrations that detracts from comfort. Similarly, they do not improve steering response or reduce tire wear, as the misalignment and degraded handling that result from such wear do just the opposite. Thus, the correct answer reflects the significant negative impact that worn control arm bushings have on vehicle performance and comfort.