2008 Ford Taurus X - Trailing Arm Bushing

What is a Trailing Arm Bushing?

Trailing arm suspension systems are used in conjunction with your coil spring suspension to keep the axle in place and provide a pivot point by attaching to the chassis. The trailing arm is part of your suspension system that secures the vehicle's axle to its chassis and allows the axle assembly to move vertically when driving over rough terrain or bumps in the road. Each end of the trailing arm contains a bushing that allows for this movement while dampening slight vibrations and maintaining alignment and tolerances. These bushings are often made of rubber and may fail or crack due to heat, exposure to the elements, or normal wear and tear over time. If the trailing arm bushing wears out or is damaged, you may notice clunking when braking or accelerating, excessive tire wear, or loose steering and handling. These symptoms can worsen as your trailing arm bushing continues to wear, and this could eventually become dangerous if the bushing or sleeve separates from the interior of the trailing arm. If you need a new trailing arm bushing, check out O'Reilly Auto Parts to find all the suspension parts and tools you need for a complete repair.