Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension consists of independent control arms, springs, and struts for each rear wheel. This enables the vertical movement of one rear wheel without affecting the other. Each control arm attaches to the suspension knuckle through a ball joint for reduced friction. A suspension adjustment link on each arm provides for toed adjustment and minimal alignment variation during suspension movement. A stabilizer shaft minimizes body roll.

The bottom of each strut attaches to the suspension knuckle, and the top of each strut attaches to the reinforced body area. The struts are non-adjustable and non-refillable. Struts require replacement under the following conditions:
^ Loss of resistance
^ Damage
^ Leaking fluid

Some vehicles have Electronic Level Control (ELC), which utilizes air adjustable struts. ELC maintains the rear trim height under a wide range of loads. Refer to ELC, as applicable.

A single unit hub and bearing is bolted to the rear knuckle. This sealed unit eliminates the need for wheel bearing adjustments and periodic maintenance. The hub and bearing has an integral speed sensor ring on the inboard side of the hearing for antilock brake functions. The wheel speed sensor is within the knuckle.