S204: replace front suspension arms, or just the bushes?

[220estate]

Hi everyone,

My 2010 S204 will need front suspension arms replaced (hydrobushes are visibly cracked, some potholes/bumps feel very harsh).

Options are to either go for a repair kit and replace the 4 arms, or just do the hydrobushes - the second option being quite a bit cheaper. The arms, ball joints etc seem in good condition otherwise.

Does anyone actually just replace the hydrobushes? Or is the extra hassle with presses etc not worth it? Any thoughts welcome ;-)

 

[markjay]

I had the hydrobushes replaced on my W204, and in hindsight, it was a mistake, I should have replaced the entire arm. The additional labour cost for replacing the bush was almost the difference between the cost of the bush and the cost of the whole control arm. It required the use of a press, a blowtorch, and an angle grinder.... and took quite some time. It was done by Tony Bones at the time.

 

[Jobsworth]

Also the fact that the balljoints, although possibly good right now, will definitely have some wear present. You might well end up replacing the whole arm a short time later. Bush replacement alone is false economy in my book.

 

[Riva811]

Theres always the risk of suspension arms cracking. I believe the control arm is cast iron and the front arms aluminium