A Guide to the Rear Suspension Trailing Arm for the 2008-2017 Toyota Highlander
Hearing a squeak or groan from the rear of your Highlander? It might be time for a new trailing arm.
- A squeaking or groaning from the rear is a known issue addressed by Toyota TSB T-SB-0211-17 for 2014-2017 models.
- It is highly recommended to replace trailing arms in pairs to ensure balanced handling and resolve noise issues.
- A four-wheel alignment is mandatory after replacement to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire wear.
- The failure is almost always the rubber bushing, not the metal arm itself.
Is Your Highlander Making a Rear Suspension Noise?
If you own a 2008-2017 Toyota Highlander, especially a 2014-2017 model, you might hear a distinct noise from the back of the vehicle. Owners often describe it as a squeak, squawk, or groan. This sound is most common when driving at low speeds over bumps, like going into a driveway, or when coming to a stop. The noise can also get worse in colder weather. While several things can cause suspension noise, on these Highlanders, the problem is very often a worn-out rear trailing arm bushing.
Known Issue: Toyota Technical Service Bulletin (TSB)
Toyota is aware of this issue and released a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB-0211-17) for 2014-2017 Highlanders. The TSB confirms that the rear trailing arm bushings are the likely cause of the noise. Toyota created an updated trailing arm assembly to fix the problem. The official repair procedure recommends replacing both the left and right rear trailing arms, even if only one side is making noise.
Symptoms of a Failing Trailing Arm
The metal arm itself is very strong and rarely fails unless it's bent in an accident. The problem is almost always the rubber bushing at the end of the arm, which wears out, cracks, or tears over time. Here are the signs to watch for:
- Clunking or Squeaking Noises: A clunk, groan, or squeak from the rear when you accelerate, brake, turn, or go over bumps is the most common symptom.
- Unstable Handling: The vehicle may feel loose or unstable from the rear. It might feel like it's swaying or wandering on the road instead of tracking straight.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad bushing can change the rear wheel alignment. This can cause your rear tires to wear out quickly and unevenly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Trailing Arm
When replacing your trailing arms, you can choose between original Toyota parts (OEM) or aftermarket parts. OEM parts are the most reliable choice for fit and long-term quality, but they are also the most expensive. Aftermarket parts offer significant savings. They are generally grouped into different quality tiers, but be aware that quality can be inconsistent even within the same brand.
Pro Tip: Because of the known TSB, it is highly recommended to replace trailing arms in pairs (both left and right sides) to ensure even handling and to fix the noise issue completely.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Premium Brands (Examples: Moog, Delphi): These brands often market themselves as meeting or exceeding OEM quality. Moog's "Problem Solver" line is well-known, though some long-time mechanics feel the quality has declined in recent years. These are a good choice if you want a higher-quality part with a better warranty than standard options.
- Standard/Value Brands (Examples: Dorman, Mevotech, Suspensia): These brands provide a balance of quality and cost, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious repairs. Dorman is a huge name in aftermarket parts, while Mevotech offers multiple tiers like "Supreme" for daily drivers. They are a perfectly fine choice for most owners, but may not last as long as a premium or OEM part.
Replacement Cost for 2008-2017 Toyota Highlander
The cost to replace a trailing arm depends on the parts you choose and local labor rates. An alignment is required after the job is done, so factor that into your total cost.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Trailing Arm (Single) | $38 - $129 |
| New OEM Toyota Trailing Arm (Single) | $125 - $255 |
| Shop Labor (Pair) | $152 - $225 |
| Wheel Alignment | $80 - $150 |
| Total Professional Job (Aftermarket Pair) | $310 - $680 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just the trailing arm bushing?
Yes, it is possible to press out the old bushing and press in a new one. However, this requires a hydraulic press or special tools, which most DIY mechanics don't have. For most people, and even for many repair shops, it is faster and easier to replace the entire trailing arm assembly, which comes with a new bushing already installed.
🎬 See how to replace just the bushings using a DIY tool.Do I have to get a wheel alignment after replacing a trailing arm?
Yes, absolutely. The trailing arm is a critical part of your rear suspension's alignment. Replacing it will change the alignment angles. You must get a four-wheel alignment immediately after replacement to ensure your Highlander drives straight, handles correctly, and doesn't destroy your tires.
Can I replace just one trailing arm?
While you can, it is strongly recommended to replace them in pairs. The TSB from Toyota for the common noise issue specifically advises replacing both left and right arms. Since the bushings wear out with age and mileage, if one has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing them together ensures balanced handling and prevents you from having to do the same job twice.
How difficult is it to replace a trailing arm myself?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, this is a manageable job. It requires safely lifting and supporting the vehicle on jack stands, and you will need breaker bars to deal with potentially rusted bolts. For a beginner, this job can be challenging due to seized hardware and the critical need for a post-repair alignment. It is a moderately difficult repair.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step walkthrough of the trailing arm replacement process.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 48780-0E060 48760-0E050 48780-0E061 48760-0E051 48780-0E080 48760-0E070 48710-48070 48710-48060
The trailing arm is a stamped steel or cast arm with a large rubber bushing pressed into one end. It connects the rear knuckle to the vehicle's subframe. The entire assembly is typically replaced, rather than just the bushing.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Toyota Highlander:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Highlander Making a Rear Suspension Noise?
- Known Issue: Toyota Technical Service Bulletin (TSB)
- Symptoms of a Failing Trailing Arm
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Trailing Arm
- Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Replacement Cost for 2008-2017 Toyota Highlander
- Frequently Asked Questions
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