The 1989 Ford Probe was a sporty coupe that shared its platform with the Mazda MX-6 and Mazda 626. Over three decades later, its suspension components are likely worn out. Whether you're restoring a classic or keeping a daily driver on the road, knowing which parts to replace and what fits is essential. This guide covers the main suspension parts for the 1989 Probe, common wear items, aftermarket options, and practical installation advice.
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Overview of the Suspension System
The 1989 Ford Probe uses a front MacPherson strut suspension and a rear independent strut setup. The system includes struts, coil springs, control arms, sway bars, and various bushings. Many components are shared with the Mazda MX-6 and 626 of the same era, which broadens part availability.
Key Components to Know
- Struts: The front and rear struts are the main dampers. They are often sold as complete assemblies or as inserts (cartridges).
- Coil Springs: Sit around the struts. Aftermarket springs can lower the car or improve handling.
- Control Arms: The front lower control arms have ball joints and bushings. The rear has trailing arms and lateral links.
- Sway Bars: Front and rear anti-roll bars reduce body roll. End links and bushings wear out.
- Tie Rods & Ball Joints: Critical for steering and front suspension alignment.
Common Wear Parts
Age and mileage take a toll. Here are the parts you'll most likely need to replace.
Struts and Shocks
OEM struts for the 1989 Probe are no longer widely available, but several aftermarket brands offer direct replacements. KYB, Monroe, and Gabriel make struts that fit. If you want better handling, consider adjustable dampers like Koni or Tokico. For a comfortable daily driver, standard gas-charged struts suffice. Always replace struts in pairs (both front or both rear).
Springs
Original springs sag over time. Replace them if the ride height is uneven or if you notice bottoming out. OEM-style springs are available from Moog and others. For a sportier look and better cornering, lowering springs from Eibach or H&R drop the car about 1.5 inches. Be aware that lowering may require shorter struts to avoid bottoming.
Control Arms and Bushings
Front lower control arms often have worn ball joints and bushings. Complete arms are available from Moog, Mevotech, and Duralast. Pressing in new bushings alone is possible but labor-intensive. For the rear, trailing arm bushings and lateral link bushings are common failure points. Polyurethane bushings from Energy Suspension or Prothane can tighten up the suspension, but they may increase noise and vibration.
Sway Bar Links and Bushings
Sway bar end links fail frequently. Aftermarket replacements from Moog or Energy Suspension are inexpensive. Also check the sway bar bushings where the bar mounts to the chassis—these can crack and cause clunking.
Tie Rod Ends and Ball Joints
Front tie rod ends and ball joints are safety-critical. Inspect them for play. Replace with Moog, TRW, or Raybestos. Always get an alignment after replacing these parts.
OEM vs Aftermarket: What to Choose
OEM parts from Ford are mostly discontinued. Aftermarket parts are the realistic choice. Quality varies: budget brands may have shorter life, while premium brands match or exceed OEM durability. For suspension, stick with well-known names: KYB, Moog, AC Delco, and Monroe for shocks; Eibach or H&R for springs; Moog or Mevotech for control arms and steering components.
Compatibility with Mazda Models
Since the 1989 Probe shares its platform with the Mazda MX-6 and 626 (all with the GD platform), many suspension parts interchange. Always double-check specific part numbers, but in general struts, springs, control arms, and sway bars from these Mazda models fit the Probe. This widens your options, especially for performance parts.
Installation Tips
Replacing suspension parts on a 1989 Probe is doable for a competent DIYer, but some jobs require specialized tools. Always support the vehicle securely on jack stands.
Tools You'll Need
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Wrenches and sockets (metric)
- Spring compressor (for strut disassembly)
- Torque wrench
- Ball joint separator or pickle fork
- Penetrating oil (for rusty bolts)
Safety Considerations
Strut springs are under high tension. Use a proper spring compressor to avoid injury. When removing control arms, support the hub so the brake line and ABS sensor are not damaged. After any suspension work, get a professional wheel alignment. Driving with misaligned wheels wears tires quickly and affects handling.
Recommendations
For a daily-driven 1989 Ford Probe, replace worn struts with KYB Excel-G gas struts and use Moog control arms and tie rods. If you want a sportier ride, consider a KYB Strut-Plus assembly (pre-assembled) or Koni adjustable struts with Eibach Pro-Kit springs. Polyurethane bushings are optional if you don't mind a firmer ride. Always use quality parts and replace in pairs. With proper maintenance, your Probe can handle like new for years to come.