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Pontiac Tempest Axle Support Bushings

Pontiac Tempest Axle support bushings

Axle support bushings for your Pontiac Tempest start at $8.95, and AutoBuffy stocks 3 options from Dorman, Mevotech Original Grade, and Mevotech Supreme. These rubber or polyurethane sleeves cushion the axle housing against the subframe or differential mount, absorbing road shock and keeping the axle precisely located. When they deteriorate, you lose handling stability and accelerate wear on surrounding drivetrain components.

Signs your Pontiac Tempest needs new axle support bushings

  • Clunking or thudding from the rear axle area during acceleration or braking, especially noticeable on rough pavement
  • Vibration felt through the floor or seat that worsens under load or when towing
  • Axle visibly shifted to one side, causing uneven tire gap in the wheel well
  • Premature or uneven rear tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edge
  • Loose, vague rear-end feel during cornering, as if the axle is shifting laterally
  • Visible cracking, tearing, or collapse of the bushing rubber when inspected from underneath

Which axle support bushing should you buy for your Pontiac Tempest?

The main decision is material: factory-spec rubber bushings restore OE compliance and NVH comfort, while polyurethane bushings trade some harshness for greater longevity and precision. You should also confirm whether you need the front or rear bushing position within the axle mount, as they are often sold separately and differ in diameter and durometer.

OE-Replacement Rubber
Best for
Daily drivers wanting factory ride quality
What you get
Matched stiffness and NVH absorption identical to the original bushing; easiest press-in fit
Performance Polyurethane
Best for
Enthusiasts, tow vehicles, or high-mileage rebuilds
What you get
Higher durometer for sharper axle location and longer service life; may transmit slightly more NVH
Front Axle Support Position
Best for
Vehicles where the front mount bushing takes primary load
What you get
Correct diameter and wall thickness for the leading mount bore; reduces fore-aft axle movement
Rear Axle Support Position
Best for
Complete refresh or when rear mount shows collapse or cracking
What you get
Sized for the trailing bore; works with the front bushing to fully locate the axle housing

Axle support bushings brands we stock for your Pontiac Tempest

Dorman
1 option · from $19.95
Mevotech Original Grade
1 option · from $8.95
Mevotech Supreme
1 option · from $10.95

Replacing axle support bushings on a Pontiac Tempest

Advanced⏱ 2–4 hoursFloor jack and jack stands rated for vehicle weightHydraulic press or bushing driver setBreaker bar and socket setPenetrating oil for corroded hardwareDead-blow hammer

Support the axle housing independently so it can be lowered enough to access the bushing bores, then remove the mount fasteners and press or drive out the old bushings using the appropriate driver. Press the new bushings in squarely until fully seated, lower the axle back into position, and torque all fasteners with the suspension at ride height to avoid preloading the new bushings. A post-installation inspection after the first few hundred miles is a good habit to confirm nothing has shifted.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to replace axle support bushings on a Pontiac Tempest?
Parts start at $8.95 for a single bushing at AutoBuffy. A full set typically runs more depending on brand and material. Add shop labor of one to three hours if you're not pressing them yourself, since most require a hydraulic press or bushing driver to remove and seat correctly without damage.
Can I drive my Pontiac Tempest with a worn axle support bushing?
You can drive short distances, but it is not advisable. A collapsed or cracked axle support bushing allows the axle housing to shift under load, which degrades handling, accelerates differential and driveshaft wear, and can cause unpredictable rear-end behavior at highway speeds or during hard braking.
How long do axle support bushings last on a Pontiac Tempest?
Rubber OE bushings typically last several years to well over a decade depending on road conditions, load habits, and climate. Exposure to road salt, frequent towing, and off-road use shorten that range significantly. Polyurethane bushings generally outlast rubber but should still be inspected during any suspension service.
Do I need to replace axle support bushings in pairs on a Pontiac Tempest?
Replacing them as a set is strongly recommended. Even if only one bushing shows visible damage, the others have experienced the same mileage and stress cycles. Replacing all mounting positions at once ensures balanced axle alignment, prevents a premature return repair, and saves on labor since the area is already disassembled.
Is replacing axle support bushings on a Pontiac Tempest a DIY job?
It is a moderate to advanced job. Accessing and pressing out the old bushings requires lifting and supporting the axle, which can be awkward without a lift. The press-fit installation almost always requires a hydraulic press or a quality bushing driver set. Comfortable DIYers with the right tools can complete it in a few hours.
Will new axle support bushings fix clunking on my Pontiac Tempest?
If the clunk is caused by axle housing movement against a worn or collapsed bushing, yes — new bushings should eliminate it. However, clunking can also come from worn U-joints, loose differential mount hardware, or other suspension links. Inspect those components at the same time to confirm the bushing is the source.

Shop axle support bushings by year for the Pontiac Tempest

19911990198919881987

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