Suspension
Trailing Arm
Trailing arms locate the rear axle or wheel hub so it moves up and down in a controlled path. We list 32 trailing arms from $21 to $395 for 1991-2023 vehicles, from Dorman, Mevotech, Moog and AC Delco, with many for the Ford Expedition and Explorer and others for the Chevrolet Tahoe and Nissan Pathfinder.
Shop trailing arm by vehicle
Signs of trailing arm wear
Each trailing arm has rubber bushings at one or both ends. These crack and wear out over time. Worn bushings let the rear axle shift, causing clunks over bumps, a loose or wandering feel at highway speed, and rear tires that wear unevenly.
Rust is another issue in salt belt states. A trailing arm that is rusted through or bent from an impact should be replaced right away.
Position and bushings
Positions include rear lower, rear upper, rear left and rear right. Some vehicles use the same arm on both sides, while others have specific left and right arms. Check the position on the listing.
Materials include stamped steel and steel tube, with coated or painted finishes. Note whether bushings are included. Buying an arm with new bushings already pressed in saves time compared with pressing bushings into your old arm.
Installation advice
Lift the vehicle and support the body and rear axle on stands. Replace one arm at a time if possible so the axle stays located.
Tighten the bushing bolts with the suspension at normal ride height, not hanging. Bushings tightened at full droop can twist and fail early. Check the fitment table for drive type and suspension type, such as air or coil springs, and get an alignment if your vehicle has adjustable rear geometry.
Trailing Arm questions
What does a bad trailing arm bushing sound like?
Usually a clunk or thud from the rear when going over bumps, accelerating or braking. The rear may also feel loose or shift in lane at speed.
Should I replace trailing arms in pairs?
It is recommended. Both sides age at the same rate, and matching bushings keep the rear axle centered and the handling even. It also saves a second trip under the vehicle later.
Do I need an alignment after replacing a trailing arm?
On vehicles with adjustable rear alignment, yes. On solid axle trucks and SUVs with fixed arms, an alignment check is still a good idea after suspension work.