2025 Equinox & Terrain Rear Upper Control Arm: Diagnosing Noises and Highway Sway
Your definitive guide to identifying, inspecting, and replacing the rear upper control arm on the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain.
- This control arm (GM #87825463) ONLY fits the new generation of gasoline-powered 2025+ Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain.
- A wheel alignment is MANDATORY after replacement to prevent dangerous handling and rapid tire wear.
- Symptoms include clunking noises from the rear, steering instability, and uneven tire wear. Some 2025 owners report a 'swaying' feeling at highway speeds.
- As of early 2026, there are no suspension-related recalls for these models. Failure is likely due to impact damage, not routine wear.
Important Compatibility Information
Warning: This rear upper control arm, GM part number 87825463, is specifically for the all-new generation of the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain that began with the 2025 model year. It is designed for gasoline-powered models only and is not compatible with the Equinox EV. It will not fit any Equinox or Terrain models from 2024 or earlier.
Symptoms of a Failing Control Arm
Because the 2025 Equinox and Terrain are so new, failure of this part is unlikely to be from normal wear and tear. Instead, issues are more likely to arise from a manufacturing defect or damage from a collision or hitting a large pothole. Here are the symptoms to watch for.
1. Clunking or Knocking Noises
The most common sign of a bad control arm is a distinct clunking or knocking sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. This noise is most noticeable when driving over bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose rear suspension clunking noises yourself. The sound is caused by worn or damaged bushings, which allow the metal arm to make contact with the frame or other suspension components.
2. Steering Wander and Instability
A worn control arm can make the vehicle feel unstable or disconnected from the road. You might notice the vehicle pulling to one side, or you may have to make constant small steering corrections to keep it driving in a straight line. 🎬 See how worn suspension parts cause steering wander and instability. Some owners of new 2025 models have reported a 'swaying' or 'wobbling' sensation at highway speeds, which could be related to suspension or alignment issues. If you experience this, a thorough inspection of all suspension components, including the control arms and their bushings, is warranted.
3. Uneven Tire Wear
A bad control arm allows for unwanted movement of the wheel, which throws off the wheel alignment. A visual inspection of your rear tires may reveal excessive wear on the inside or outside edge. This is a classic sign that the wheel's camber angle is incorrect due to a worn or bent suspension part.
4. Visible Damage
After hitting a curb or a severe pothole, it's wise to visually inspect the suspension components. Look for any control arms that are obviously bent, cracked, or have torn or leaking rubber bushings. The bushings are the rubber inserts where the arm bolts to the frame; they should be solid and intact.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from General Motors related to the rear suspension control arms for the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox or 2025 GMC Terrain gasoline models. Recalls issued for the 2025 Equinox pertain to the EV model or other non-suspension systems.
Buying a Used 2025 Control Arm
Since these vehicles are so new, any used or recycled control arm will have very low mileage. These parts typically come from vehicles that were in collisions. This makes inspection for damage, rather than wear, the top priority.
- Inspect for Bends and Cracks: Lay the control arm on a flat surface to check for any bends or twists. Carefully examine the entire part, especially around the welds and mounting points, for any signs of stress cracks that may have occurred during an accident.
- Check the Bushings: The rubber bushings at the mounting points should be the main focus. Even on a low-mileage part, a collision can tear a bushing. Look for any rips, tears, or separation of the rubber from the metal sleeve. The rubber should be firm and solid.
- Verify Compatibility: Double-check that you are buying the correct part. The rear upper control arm for the 2025 Equinox and Terrain is GM Part #87825463. This part fits the right (passenger) side on both FWD and AWD models.
- Why Used OEM is a Good Choice: For a new model like this, quality aftermarket options may not be available yet. A used OEM part from a low-mileage vehicle offers the original factory fit, material quality, and engineering at a lower cost than a new part from the dealer.
Replacement Overview and Related Parts
Replacing a rear control arm is a job that can be done by an experienced DIY mechanic, but it requires the proper tools and safety procedures.
🎬 Watch this walkthrough for replacing rear upper control arms.Warning: A wheel alignment is absolutely required after replacing a control arm. Skipping this step will result in poor handling and will quickly destroy your tires. Factor the cost of an alignment into your budget.
Related Parts:
- Mounting Bolts: GM service information notes that some mounting bolts for this part are single-use and cannot be reinstalled. It is highly recommended to purchase new bolts from the dealer to ensure proper torque and safety.
- Other Control Arms: The rear suspension has multiple links. If one was damaged in a collision, it's very likely others are as well. Inspect the lower control arm, trailing arm, and toe link on the same wheel for any signs of damage.
- Wheel Bearing/Hub: A significant side impact that damages a control arm can also damage the wheel bearing. After replacement, listen for any grinding or humming noises from the wheel that change with speed.
Pro Tip: When tightening the main control arm bolts, the suspension should be supporting the vehicle's weight. This is called 'ride height'. Tightening the bolts with the wheel hanging in the air will preload the bushings, causing them to fail prematurely. You can achieve this by placing the jack stand under the knuckle or by using ramps.
Cost of Replacement
Prices can vary by region and supplier, but here is a general estimate for replacing a single rear upper control arm.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $90 - $100 |
| New Aftermarket | Not widely available as of early 2026 |
| Used OEM | $45 - $70 |
| Shop Labor (Part Replacement) | $150 - $220 |
| Shop Labor (Wheel Alignment) | $125 - $175 |
| Total Professional Job (Used Part) | $320 - $465 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a wheel alignment really necessary after replacing just one control arm?
Yes, it is absolutely essential. The control arm dictates the wheel's alignment angles. Even a brand new part can have slight dimensional differences from the old one, and its installation will alter the alignment. Driving without an alignment will cause unpredictable handling and rapid, uneven tire wear.
Should I replace control arms in pairs (left and right)?
If you are replacing the arm due to damage from an accident or pothole, you only need to replace the damaged side. If, on a higher-mileage vehicle, a control arm bushing fails from wear, it is best practice to replace both the left and right arms at the same time, as the other side is likely to fail soon.
What is the difference between a control arm and a lateral link?
In the context of a modern multi-link suspension, the terms are often used interchangeably. A 'lateral link' is a type of control arm that specifically controls the side-to-side (lateral) position of the wheel. This part, GM #87825463, is technically a lateral link, but is commonly called an upper control arm.
Why can't I find aftermarket control arms for my 2025 Equinox?
It takes time for aftermarket companies to reverse-engineer, tool up for, and manufacture new parts for a brand-new vehicle generation. For the first year or two of a new model, OEM parts (either new from a dealer or used/recycled) are often the only options available.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Fitment | 2025-2025 Chevrolet Equinox (Gas), 2025-2025 GMC Terrain (Gas) |
| Part Position | Rear Right Upper (Passenger Side) |
| OEM Part Number | 87825463 |
| Replaces Part Numbers | 13377313, 84988300 |
| Torque Specs | Not publicly available. Refer to an official GM service manual for the correct torque values and procedures, as torque-to-yield bolts are likely used. |
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 87825463
Position: Rear Right Upper. Fits both FWD and AWD models.
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.
- Chevrolet Equinox:
- GMC Terrain:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Important Compatibility Information
- Symptoms of a Failing Control Arm
- 1. Clunking or Knocking Noises
- 2. Steering Wander and Instability
- 3. Uneven Tire Wear
- 4. Visible Damage
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Buying a Used 2025 Control Arm
- Replacement Overview and Related Parts
- Cost of Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Technical Specifications
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