A Buick Regal Owner's Guide to Rear Lateral Arm Replacement (1995-2005)
Address clunking noises and poor handling by understanding how to choose the right replacement rear lateral arms for your Regal.
- A clunking noise from the rear over bumps is the most common symptom of failure.
- Always replace lateral arms in pairs and get a 4-wheel alignment immediately after to prevent unsafe handling and tire damage.
- Replacing the entire arm is much easier and more effective than pressing new bushings.
- Inspect for heavy rust, as a broken arm can cause a loss of vehicle control.
Is Your Regal's Rear End Making Noise?
If you're hearing a clunking, popping, or knocking sound from the back of your 1995-2005 Buick Regal, especially when going over bumps, you're not alone. This is a very common sign that the bushings in your rear lateral arms have worn out. Over time, the rubber in the bushings degrades, allowing for metal-on-metal contact and excessive movement in the suspension. Another major cause of failure on these cars is rust, which can weaken the arm itself or seize the mounting bolts, making replacement more difficult.
Symptoms of a Failing Lateral Arm
Besides noise, there are other clues that your lateral arms need attention:
- Loose or Wandering Rear End: The car may feel unstable, especially at highway speeds or when cornering. It might feel like the rear of the car wants to steer on its own.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Worn bushings prevent the suspension from holding a proper alignment, often causing the inside or outside edge of the rear tires to wear down quickly.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection may reveal cracked or torn rubber bushings, or an arm that is bent or severely rusted.
A Note on Corrosion
While no specific recall exists for the 1995-2005 Regal's lateral arms, later model GM vehicles were recalled for rear suspension links that could fracture due to corrosion in salt-belt states. Given the age of these Regals, a severely rusted lateral arm should be considered a serious safety issue that could lead to a loss of vehicle control.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Lateral Arm
For a vehicle of this age, replacing the entire lateral arm assembly is almost always a better choice than trying to press out old bushings. A new arm comes with fresh bushings pre-installed, saving significant time and labor. Here’s a look at the common aftermarket brands available:
Tier 1: Standard Replacement (Dorman)
Dorman is a widely available brand that provides a cost-effective, direct-fit replacement for the original part. These arms are a good choice for daily driving and are popular with DIY mechanics for their straightforward installation. While they meet OEM specifications, some professional mechanics note that the long-term durability of the bushings may not be as robust as more premium options.
Tier 2: Enhanced/Affordable Quality (Mevotech)
Mevotech is often positioned as a brand that balances quality and affordability, sometimes offering designs intended to be an improvement over the original. For suspension parts, they may use different bushing designs to improve durability. While generally considered a solid choice, some users have reported occasional quality control issues with fitment right out of the box. Checking the part upon arrival is a good practice.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Lateral Arm (Single) | $39 - $53 |
| Shop Labor (Pair) | $200 - $450 |
| 4-Wheel Alignment (Required) | $100 - $180 |
| Total Professional Job (Pair) | $380 - $780 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I absolutely need a wheel alignment after replacing lateral arms?
Yes, 100%. Replacing these arms will alter your rear suspension geometry. Failing to get a 4-wheel alignment will result in poor handling, a crooked steering wheel, and will destroy your tires in a very short time.
How many lateral arms does my 1995-2005 Regal have?
Your vehicle has a total of four rear lateral arms: a forward and a rearward arm on both the driver's and passenger's side.
Can I do this job myself?
This is a manageable job for an experienced DIYer with the right tools. However, it can become very difficult if the bolts are seized with rust, which is common. This may require cutting tools to remove the old arm. Accessing the inner bolts can also be tight and may require lowering the rear subframe slightly.
Should I replace the trailing arms at the same time?
While not required, it's a good idea to inspect the trailing arms and their bushings when you replace the lateral arms. The trailing arms control front-to-back wheel movement. If their bushings are also cracked or the arms are rusted, replacing them at the same time can save you from paying for labor and another alignment down the road.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 25820032
The rear suspension uses four lateral arms in total: a forward and a rearward arm for each side. They are not interchangeable. Ensure you are ordering the correct arm for the specific position (rearward or forward) and side (left or right).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Regal:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Regal's Rear End Making Noise?
- Symptoms of a Failing Lateral Arm
- A Note on Corrosion
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Lateral Arm
- Tier 1: Standard Replacement (Dorman)
- Tier 2: Enhanced/Affordable Quality (Mevotech)
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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