ford falcon suspension problems Page 44

The Ford Falcon’s suspension is tough but not immortal; years of Aussie roads and heroic potholes will loosen things up faster than a cheap stubby holder.

• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints wear, causing clunks and inner-shoulder tyre wear.
• Sway bar links and bushes rattle over sharp bumps; mercifully, they’re inexpensive to replace.
• Strut top mounts and shock absorbers can leak or knock as mileage climbs.
• Rear differential bush on many BA–FG sedans tears, giving a thump on take-off; utes can cop sagging leaf springs.

On a test drive, listen for front-end clunks, light steering shimmy, and check for uneven tyre wear or damp shocks.

A pre-purchase inspection and wheel alignment report will save you coin and whingeing later.