A Guide to Replacing the Rear Lateral Arm on a 2015-2020 Chevrolet Impala
If you're hearing clunking noises from the back of your Impala, a bad lateral arm could be the cause.
- Listen for clunking noises from the rear over bumps, a primary sign of failure.
- Visually inspect your suspension to identify which specific lateral arm (forward or rearward) has failed before ordering a replacement.
- Compare prices, as genuine GM lateral arms are often cost-competitive with aftermarket options for this model.
- Always get a four-wheel alignment immediately after replacing a lateral arm to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
Is Your Impala's Rear Suspension Making Noise?
A common complaint for the 2015-2020 Chevrolet Impala is a clunking or rattling sound coming from the rear of the car, especially when driving over bumps 🎬 Watch a technician diagnose common rear suspension rattles and clunks. or uneven roads. This noise is often the first sign that a lateral arm bushing has worn out, allowing metal-to-metal contact. Other symptoms include a loose or wandering feeling from the rear end while driving and uneven wear on your rear tires.
Important: Identify the Correct Arm
The Impala's multi-link rear suspension uses more than one lateral arm per side, often referred to as a "forward" and "rearward" arm. These parts are not interchangeable. Before ordering, you must visually inspect your vehicle to determine which specific arm has failed and needs replacement.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Lateral Arm
When it's time for a replacement, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) and aftermarket parts. For this specific part on the Impala, the decision requires some thought.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Genuine GM parts offer a guaranteed fit and are made to the original quality standards. Surprisingly, the OEM lateral arm for the Impala is often priced competitively with, or even cheaper than, some aftermarket options.
- Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket brands provide an alternative to OEM. Mevotech is a widely available option. Forum discussions show mixed experiences; some users report that Mevotech's premium lines (like Supreme or TTX) are durable, while others have experienced premature bushing failure on the standard-grade parts. Given the critical role of this part and the small price difference, carefully weigh the pros and cons.
Pro Tip: Suspension components should ideally be replaced in pairs (left and right) to ensure balanced handling and predictable performance. 🎬 See how replacing these arms fixes rear-end wobble and instability. After replacing a lateral arm, a four-wheel alignment is not optional—it's required. Skipping the alignment will lead to rapid tire wear and potential handling problems.
Cost to Replace a Lateral Arm on a 2015-2020 Impala
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $37 - $65 |
| New Aftermarket | $61 - $68 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any recalls for the Impala lateral arm?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database show no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for lateral arm failure on the 2015-2020 Chevrolet Impala. Failures are typically the result of normal wear from mileage and road conditions.
Can I just replace the bushing?
While technically possible, it is not recommended. Pressing old bushings out and new ones in requires special tools and is labor-intensive. It is far more efficient and reliable to replace the entire lateral arm assembly, which comes with new bushings already installed.
How difficult is it to replace a lateral arm myself?
For a DIYer with mechanical experience and the right tools, this is a manageable job. The process involves unbolting the old arm and installing the new one. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step walkthrough of the lateral arm replacement. However, bolts can be rusted and difficult to remove. You may also need to loosen other suspension components to get the new arm to line up correctly.
What happens if I don't replace a bad lateral arm?
Ignoring a failed lateral arm is unsafe. The clunking noise will worsen, and the vehicle's handling will become increasingly unpredictable. It will also cause accelerated and uneven wear on your rear tires, costing you more money in the long run.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13219171 22924230
The 2015-2020 Impala uses a multi-link rear suspension with multiple lateral arms, including forward and rearward positions. Verify the exact arm needed before purchase.
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.
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