69 BUSHES!!!

Abbie has been to the garage for a shakedown. I explained that there was a rattling noise from the back and wanted them to pin it down. The mechanic asked me when the knocking occurred, and I told him that it happened pretty much all the time. I wasn’t sure if it was suspension or exhaust, although I suspected it was the latter.

I explained about warranty companies being involved, and he quickly interjected, confirming that they don’t deal with those companies - “a complete pain in the arse” was his professional opinion.  

I know that unless it is something catastrophic at the back, the warranty company will dismiss any claim with the auld ‘suspension and exhausts are consumable parts that are not covered’, but it might give me a little leverage if they try to extend the warranty or if I have to contact Ed at the company I bought the car from.

The garage has confirmed that despite being rusted and a bit tatty, my exhaust is okay for the moment, although it will need to be replaced in the future. The mechanic thinks it could be the rear axle bushes, as he has had it up on the ramp and can see that they are worn. He also said that it looks like the shock absorbers have had some work done, so it could be the previous owner has been trying to hunt down the elusive knocking.

The good news is that I don’t need a new exhaust; there is a fat slice of wedge saved right there. The bad news is that I need new bushes, which are only £20 or so, to be fair. However, it is a few hours of labour, so it will cost about £300 in total. The other plus is that the work can be done in a couple of days. It looks like I need to bite the bullet.

I asked the mechanic about aftermarket bushes, and he said they would fit if I sourced them, so there was no problem. He said he had some on a Fiesta ST a few years ago, and it made an already firm ride even firmer. I think I’ll stick with the regular components.