I just had ''my rear-end'' refurbished last week. My W124 is 14 years old and was still with its original bushings.
Upon a visual inspection, prying around all the links and control arm, nothing seemed to present much wear or signs of deterioration. But I knew the car was not handling properly.
When the control arms were removed from the car, I realized what 14 years of driving can do. All bushings/pins/bolts showed the effect of time and mileage. Over the years rubber bushing does not maintain their designed stiffness or pliability and cause handling problem.
My car now drives like a new one (almost)
JackD