A Ford Flex Owner's Guide to Replacing the 2009-2019 Rear Suspension Trailing Arm
Clunking noises from the back of your Flex? It might be time for new trailing arms.
- A clunking noise from the rear is the most common symptom of a bad trailing arm.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacement to prevent tire damage.
- The trailing arm is a different part from the recalled rear toe link, but it's wise to inspect all suspension components.
- For most owners, replacing the entire arm is more practical than just replacing the bushings.
Is Your Ford Flex Making a Clunking Noise?
One of the most common signs of a bad trailing arm on a Ford Flex is a clunking or knocking sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. You might hear it most when you go over bumps, accelerate, or even just put the car in gear. This noise is often caused by worn-out rubber bushings that are supposed to cushion the trailing arm's connection points. When the rubber is gone, you get metal-on-metal contact, which creates the noise.
🎬 Watch this video to diagnose clanking noises and rear instability.Other signs of a failing trailing arm include:
- A loose or unstable feeling from the rear end, especially at highway speeds or when turning. The vehicle might feel like it's swaying.
- Uneven or rapid tire wear on the rear tires. A bad arm can throw off the suspension alignment, causing tires to wear improperly.
Important Note on Recalls
Ford issued a major recall (NHTSA recall 20V072000) for the rear suspension TOE LINKS on 2013-2018 Ford Flex models. A broken toe link can cause a sudden loss of vehicle control. The trailing arm is a different part and is not covered by this recall. However, if you are having any work done on your rear suspension, it is a good idea to have a mechanic inspect all components, including the toe links, for safety.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Trailing Arm
When replacing the trailing arm on your Flex, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part from the dealer. Aftermarket parts offer a good balance of quality and value. Here’s a look at the brands available, generally tiered by quality and price.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (Moog, Delphi): These brands are widely considered to be OE-quality or better. They engineer their parts for durability and often include improvements over the original design. Moog is known for its "Problem Solver" line, and Delphi is a major OE supplier to many car manufacturers. You can expect to pay more, but they are a solid choice if you plan on keeping your Flex for a long time.
- Standard Aftermarket (Mevotech): Mevotech offers a good middle ground, balancing quality with a more affordable price. They have different product lines, with some being higher quality than others. For a daily driven vehicle, their standard or "Supreme" line is often a reliable and cost-effective choice.
Pro Tip: Regardless of the brand, it's often a good idea to replace suspension components in pairs (both left and right sides). 🎬 See a complete step-by-step walkthrough of Ford Flex rear suspension repairs. If one side has failed due to age and mileage, the other side is likely not far behind.
How Much Does a Trailing Arm Replacement Cost?
The cost can be broken down into parts and labor. The part itself is affordable, but labor can add up, especially if bolts are rusted and seized.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Trailing Arm | $39 - $98 |
| New OEM Trailing Arm | $180 - $250 |
| Shop Labor | $200 - $400 (for one side) |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a Ford Flex trailing arm myself?
This job can be difficult for a beginner. While it involves unbolting the old part and bolting in the new one, the bolts are often seized with rust, especially in northern climates. Special tools like pry bars, large breaker bars, and even a torch may be needed to free the old hardware. In some cases, the subframe may need to be partially lowered to get enough clearance. If you are not experienced with this type of work, it's best left to a professional.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a trailing arm?
Yes, absolutely. The trailing arm is a critical part of your rear suspension's geometry. Replacing it will change the alignment. Driving without a proper alignment will cause poor handling and destroy your tires quickly. Plan on getting a four-wheel alignment immediately after the repair.
Should I replace just the bushings or the whole arm?
While it is sometimes possible to press out the old bushings and install new ones, it requires special tools and adds significant labor. Given the affordable cost of a complete aftermarket trailing arm which comes with new bushings already installed, it is almost always easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire arm assembly.
What is the difference between a trailing arm and a toe link?
They are both links in the rear suspension, but they control different movements. The trailing arm controls the wheel's forward/backward motion. The toe link controls the wheel's angle relative to the car's centerline (the "toe" angle). The toe link was subject to a recall on the Flex, while the trailing arm was not.
🎬 Watch: How to replace the rear lateral link on your Flex.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DA8Z5A649A 8A8Z5A649A 8A8Z5A649B
This is the rear trailing arm, which controls longitudinal (forward/backward) wheel movement. It is a stamped steel arm with rubber bushings at both mounting points. It is distinct from the upper control arms, lower control arms, and toe links.
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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.
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