The GTI's rear suspension (a torsion-beam axle on the FWD cars) is simple and durable, but its bushings wear and its alignment matters more than people expect.
What wears:
- The rear axle-beam mounting bushings — worn ones let the rear steer slightly, giving a loose, wandering feel and uneven rear tyre wear.
- Shock mounts and the shocks themselves.
- Rear wheel bearings (see Wheel Bearings).
Alignment:
- The rear beam sets toe and camber; heavy inner-edge rear tyre wear means the rear alignment is out — often after lowering (see Coilovers Lowering).
The fix: press in new beam bushings and set the alignment; on a lowered car, camber/toe shims correct the geometry.
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