Failed bushes - Audi A4

[b4gga83]

Hi all

I was wondering whether anyone could enlighten me. I own a Aud A4 on a 2001, about seven months ago I had the lower arms changed at the front N/S/F and O/S/F, the mileage was around 129,000 at the time. Fast forward to the present I found that the upper two arms needed changing - no problem I'll get them changed.

My mechanic then found that the lower arms both O/S/F and N/S/F with a large bush at one end and a ball joint at the other had perished having only done 6,000 miles. I was none too happy, as my mechanic had supplied the part to me - I then told him that the replacement bottom arms weren't up to scratch and that he'll have to absorb the cost and take it up with his supplier in regards to a refund and compensation of the labour charge.

My mechanic was obviously none too happy and reluctantly agreed, now the thing is my mechanic is a very close friend and we have known him for the best part of 15 years, very honest and trustworthy individual.

Was I right to do what I had done? If so, what can I recommend my mechanic do in order for him to get his money back, as it stands he is almost £100 out of pocket plus labour costs.

[Quattros]

sorry to hear that. the bottom big bushes might look frayed, but its not aalways the case. as long as its smooth ride, no judder when braking its okay.

about friends.. remember its business... hence wwhy family and business often colide...

[Scott58]

I would have thought the parts supplier would be the one to replace or refund, as for the labour costs that's a loss I would have thought.

I have heard about uprated sets for sale just need to find out who? as the wear it is a common problem so I have heard, 6000 miles is not good at all. You did the right thing as they should be sold as fit for purpose and they obviously weren't so I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.


Scott58

[adamss24]

Your mate used cheap chinese knock-outs wich-while being cheap are also dangerous by not lasting and degrading very quick. I wont put nothing but Lemforder( OEM supllier for VAG Group), Meyle or Febi parts... Its realy a no brainer but very few peoples pay for quality nowadays and hence the reproduction market ! I would also change the supplier if i was your mate !