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The two different colors are essentially the same at a formula level. Some black components are graphite impregnated as a self-lubricating agent, but overall they are the same part. Graphite is not added to the red formula simply because it changes the color of the bushing.
Bushing hardness by color?
The Durometer (or hardness) of red and black bushings are the same for that position. The different colors do not indicate a higher or lower durometer.
Why buy red bushings?
Red or black bushings is almost entirely an aesthetic choice, there is no real functional difference between the two. Some who drive their vehicles especially hard (track, rally, etc.) sometimes use red bushings because it is easier to see any damage that the bushing might have suffered from extreme conditions.
Are there other bushing colors?
Energy Suspension used to have Yellow and Blue options but they stopped producing components in these colors a long time ago and they are no longer available on the market.
Color
Prothane Red vs Black
Black, or Red? Red, or Black?
Prothane makes bushings in both colors. But is there a difference in them? Is one harder than the other? There are a lot of misconceptions about the color difference in Prothane's bushings, so let us at DST clear that up for you.
How are these two colors different?
Aside from the actual color, there isn't really a difference at all between the red and the black. They are the same durometer, or hardness, so they will perform the same and both should last the life of your vehicle.
What about the graphite rumor?
The black bushings do have a small amount of graphite mixed in with the polyurethane which has the potential to help with squeaking. But really, the best way to prevent Prothane bushings from squeaking is to use the supplied pre-lube* and grease them properly at install. So whether you choose the red, or the black, just be sure to grease them properly to avoid any squeaking.
* Some types of bushings only compress, such as body mounts and endlinks, and do not come with grease because they do not need grease. So if your kit comes with grease, be sure to use it!
Free Lifetime Warranty Upgrade
Putting the Icing on the Cake
Energy Suspension offers a 7 year warranty for every part they make. But we know the quality of these parts deserves the peace of mind that a Lifetime Warranty provides. Exclusively for DST customers, we offer a FREE upgrade to a Lifetime Warranty handled directly thru us. No strings, no hassles, no receipts needed.
