Lexus Repair: poor ride quality, rod bushings, strut rod

Question
Hi Zak,
I have a 94 LS400 w/ 130,000 mi. Not long ago I changed the carrier bushings but I didn't do the strut rods. I've noticed it has started taking bumps harder in the rear equally on both sides. My son thinks it's the Struts and I think it's the strut rods. When I go over railroad tracks it almost feels like it did when I needed carrier bushings. The rear end does not sag. One other question please. How can I tell if the strut bar cushions in the front are bad ?

 Thank-you
  Jansen  

Answer
Hello Jansen, It could be the strut rod bushings in the front or rear. You want to get your vehicle on a lift and look at them to see if you can see any deterioration in the bushings. Also grab the rods and see if you can move them around in any direction. You should not be able to. Also grab the tires and see if anything moves when you try and move them in and out.