What does a trailing arm do?

A trailing arm is part of a vehicle’s trailing-arm suspension system. The trailing arm is the piece of the suspension system that connects the vehicle’s axle to its chassis. It’s job is to act as a pivot point and stop the rear axle or rear spindle from moving forward or rearward during operation of the vehicle.

In addition to the trailing arm itself are the trailing arm bushings. These are rubber or polyurethane components that act as cushions and reduce friction between the suspension parts.

DS

DS is the premium automobile marque of the Groupe PSA. First announced in 2009 by Citroën as its premium sub-brand; it was suggested to be an abbreviation of different spirit or distinctive series. However, in French, the name is considered a play on words, as the translation of déesse becomes goddess in English.

How popular is DS in the United Kingdom?

As a newcomer to the UK market in its own right, there were around 35k DS cars on the roads in the UK by the end of 2018. Whether those figures will continue to rise at the same rate shown since their introduction in 2015, only time will tell.

Looking to provide a standalone marque to initially compete with brands such as Volkswagen and Audi, PSA decided that neither Citroën nor Peugeot would be able to carry the brand strength that would be able to make a serious threat in the market with an elevated price-point at the level of quality and luxury they set out to achieve.

DS: Establishing a new range of upmarket models

To compete with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, DS introduced a range of hatchbacks, saloons and SUVs but it’s undoubtedly their supermini city car that is proving the most popular.

The DS3, sold as a 3-door hatchback or a convertible, is available in countless customisation options and also as the subcompact luxury crossover SUV DS3 Crossback. The DS3 was voted Car of the Year by Top Gear Magazine, and first place supermini four times in a row in the JD Power Satisfaction UK Survey.

DS: Don’t be fooled into thinking they’re just a one trick pony

At the other end of the range you’ll find the DS7 Crossback. Here’s a large SUV designed to compete directly with the Audi Q5, the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC; that’s quite a jump for a car that’s built by Citroën.

The models that you’ll find between the DS3 and the DS7 are created with the same style for the market in mind. The DS4, a mixture of hatchback and SUV, and the DS5, a bigger hatchback priced and pitched against the Audi A4, the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class saloons.

How often should a trailing arm need replacing?

A trailing arm should be replaced if it gets damaged or if the bushings become worn. Because the trailing arm bushings are made from rubber they will deteriorate over time and will eventually have to be replaced.

Because the arm and bushings form a crucial part of your vehicle’s suspension system, they should be replaced as soon as you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

The trailing arm and the bushes are important parts of the suspension. Wear to these bushes usually takes place slowly, often you only find out that you have worn bushes after an MOT test. Deteriorated bushes are in fact one of the most frequent MOT advisories.

Symptoms of worn suspension bushes include a bumpy ride and unstable feel to the car. It’s important to get an issue like this fixed fast to ensure the safety of your car for you and your passengers.

What happens when we do a trailing arm replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect your suspension system, including the trailing arm.

• If the trailing arm is cracked or damaged they will fit a replacement.

• They will advise if any related parts need to be replaced.

• They will check that all parts have been fitted correctly and test drive the car.

What causes a trailing arm to break?

A trailing arm will begin to fail if the bushes become worn out. The brushes act as cushions and reduce friction between the suspension parts, therefore if they’re cracked or worn the suspension system will not operate properly. Driving over large bumps or on uneven road surfaces often may also damage your suspension system over time.

When should a trailing arm be replaced?

A trailing arm should be replaced if it gets damaged or if the bushings become worn. Because the trailing arm bushings are made from rubber they will deteriorate over time and will eventually have to be replaced.

What are the signs of a bad trailing arm?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• Clunking noises from the back of your car

• Vehicle won’t stay in a straight line or sways to one side when driving

• Your rear tyres are wearing unevenly and excessively

• Loose steering when turning corners

What happens during a trailing arm replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect your suspension system, including the trailing arm.

• If the trailing arm is cracked or damaged they will fit a replacement.

• They will advise if any related parts need to be replaced.

• They will check that all parts have been fitted correctly and test drive the car.

Can you drive with a broken trailing arm?

You should not drive with a bad trailing arm. Failing to repair a broken or cracked trailing arm could lead to separation of that side of the axle. Continuing to drive is dangerous for you, your passengers and other road users as it’s only a matter of time before further, more serious damage occurs.

What happens if you don't change a bad trailing arm?

Failing to repair a broken or cracked trailing arm could lead to separation of that side of the axle. It could also result in other parts of your vehicle’s suspension system becoming more damaged meaning more costly repairs down the line.