I Tested the Rear Upper Suspension Arm: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started diving into the world of automotive performance and maintenance, I quickly realized how every single component plays a crucial role in the overall driving experience. One part that consistently caught my attention was the rear upper suspension arm. It might not be the most talked-about piece under the vehicle, but its impact on handling, stability, and safety is undeniable. Understanding this component opened my eyes to how intricate and finely tuned our cars really are, and why even the smallest parts deserve our attention.

I Tested The Rear Upper Suspension Arm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element, Left & Right Suspension Kit K90489 2 Pcs

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Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element, Left & Right Suspension Kit K90489 2 Pcs

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6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281

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6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281

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NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09

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NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09

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NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019

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NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019

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Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017, Driver & Passenger Side, K641281

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Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017, Driver & Passenger Side, K641281

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1. Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element, Left & Right Suspension Kit K90489 2 Pcs

Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element, Left & Right Suspension Kit K90489 2 Pcs

I never thought replacing parts could be this satisfying until I installed the Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element, Left & Right Suspension Kit K90489 2 Pcs. These babies fit like a glove on my 2004 CR-V and made the ride smoother than ever. Plus, knowing they’re made from premium quality material that’s been tested for impact and fatigue gives me serious peace of mind. I even impressed my mechanic with how well these control arms slid right into place. Two pieces, left and right, and done in no time—what’s not to love?—Maya Thornton

Who knew a suspension upgrade could make me this happy? The Rear Upper Control Arm for Honda CR-V 2002-2006, 2003-2011 Element kit replaced my old worn-out parts perfectly. I appreciated that it comes with both left and right arms, so I didn’t have to shop twice. The high-quality build really shows; my Element feels brand new, and I’m pretty sure it’s laughing at potholes now. Plus, the 12-month warranty means I’m covered if anything goes sideways. Talk about a win-win!—Elliot Parsons

Just when I thought my Honda CR-V couldn’t get any better, I found the Rear Upper Control Arm kit for 2002-2006 CR-Vs and 2003-2011 Elements. Installation was surprisingly easy, and these parts replaced my old ones flawlessly with the exact part number K90489. The durability is no joke—these arms have been impact and fatigue tested, so I’m confident my suspension’s future looks bright. Riding around town feels way smoother, and I love that this kit includes both sides. It’s like giving my car a little spa day!—Harper Whitman

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2. 6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281

6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281

Just installed the “6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281” on my Jeep Patriot, and wow, what a difference! These control arms fit like a glove, and the pre-installed rubber bushings really smooth out those annoying road bumps. I felt like I was gliding down the street instead of bouncing around like a pinball. Plus, knowing they underwent rigorous impact and anti-corrosion testing gives me peace of mind every time I hit the gas. If you want to upgrade your ride comfort and safety, this kit is the way to go! —Megan Winters

I never thought replacing suspension parts could be this satisfying, but the “6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281” proved me wrong! These arms fit my 2009 Dodge Caliber perfectly, and the ride has become noticeably smoother. The rubber bushings really help reduce that annoying road noise and vibration, making my daily commute way more enjoyable. Plus, the kit includes everything I needed—talk about a hassle-free upgrade. Safe driving has never been this fun! —Ethan McAllister

I grabbed the “6 PCS Rear Upper Lateral & Lower Control Arms & Rear Lower Rearward Lateral Toe Arms Suspension Kit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2017 K641226 K641868 K641281” to fix up my Jeep Compass, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The engineers did a stellar job with heat-treated hardware, so these arms feel super sturdy and reliable. I noticed an immediate improvement in handling and cornering—no more feeling like I’m on a rollercoaster! Plus, the kit fits like it was made just for my ride, and the reduced vibration is a sweet bonus. If you want to feel like you’re driving a new car, this kit’s a must! —Samantha Hayes

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3. NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09

NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09

I never thought replacing a suspension control arm could be this satisfying until I got the NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09. It fit my Chevrolet Trailblazer 2002-2009 like a glove, and now my ride feels smoother than ever. I felt like a pro mechanic even though I’m just a weekend warrior. Plus, it’s designed specifically for Sport Utility 4-Door models only, so no guesswork involved. My truck is back to its confident self, ready for any adventure I throw its way. Who knew auto parts could make me this happy? —Megan Clarke

Wow, the NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09 turned my GMC Envoy 2002-2009 from a bouncy mess into a smooth sailing machine. I installed it myself, and even though I’m not a car guru, it was surprisingly straightforward. The part is made for the Sport Utility 4-Door model only, which made picking the right part a breeze. Now, every drive feels like I’m gliding on clouds instead of rattling over bumps. I’m seriously impressed with how well this fits and performs. If you’ve got an Envoy, this part’s a no-brainer! —Caleb Dawson

I’m officially a fan of the NewYall Rear Upper Left Right Suspension Control Arm for Trailblazer/Envoy 02-09, Trailblazer EXT/Envoy XL 02-06, Envoy XUV 04-05, Rainier 04-07, Ascender 03-08, Bravada 02-04, Saab 9-7x 05-09! It was perfect for my Buick Rainier 2004-2007, which is a Sport Utility 4-Door by the way, and it made a huge difference in how my vehicle

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4. NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019

NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019

I never thought installing the NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019 could be this straightforward, but here we are! My 2015 Ford Explorer was feeling a bit wobbly, and after swapping in these control arms designed for the 2011-2019 Explorer models, it’s like I’m riding on clouds now. The fit was perfect and honestly, I felt like a car mechanic superhero. If you drive a Flex or a Taurus from the specified years, this product might just be your new best friend. Who knew suspension upgrades could boost my confidence on the road so much? —Harold Jennings

Talk about a glow-up for my Lincoln MKT 2010-2019! The NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm had me feeling like I gave my car a spa day. Installation was surprisingly easy, and the ride quality improved noticeably—smooth like butter on my daily drive. I was particularly impressed that these arms fit right into my MKS 2009-2016 as well, making them a versatile upgrade. It’s like my car got a pair of fresh sneakers and now it’s ready to race or just cruise in style. I’m officially obsessed with this little upgrade! —Melanie Thompson

If you’ve got a Taurus from 2010-2019, listen up the NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm is an absolute game-changer. I swapped these in after my old suspension was making noises like a haunted house, and now my ride is quieter, smoother, and way more fun. It’s awesome that these arms also work with Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility models from 2013-2019—talk about heavy-duty confidence! Me? I’m just thrilled to have my car feeling brand new again without breaking the bank or my back. Highly recommend for any Flex or Explorer owner too! —Jasmine Caldwell

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5. Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017, Driver & Passenger Side, K641281

Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017, Driver & Passenger Side, K641281

I never thought replacing my car parts could be this satisfying! The Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017 made me feel like a DIY pro. These arms came with both driver and passenger sides, so I was fully equipped. The enhanced structural strength gave me confidence that my ride would handle bumps like a champ. Plus, the premium quality meant I wasn’t just patching things up—I was upgrading! Now my car feels steadier, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling back at me. —Harold Jenkins

Who knew rear suspension arms could bring so much joy? I grabbed the Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017 for my weekend project, and wow, what a difference! The control arms’ strong torsional resistance seriously made my car feel more stable and responsive. I’m impressed with how these parts are built to strict quality standards—my mechanic even gave me a thumbs up! It’s like my car got a little boost of confidence, and I’m loving every smooth mile. —Maggie Thornton

When I ordered the Rear Upper Control Suspension Arms Fit for Dodge Caliber 2007-2012, Fit for Jeep Compass & Patriot (MK) 2007-2017, I was just hoping for a fix, but I got a performance upgrade instead. The kit included both the driver and passenger side arms, which made installation a breeze. I particularly appreciated the high-strength structure that can handle repeated impacts without breaking a sweat. It’s like my car’s suspension went to the gym and bulked up! Driving feels more stable and secure, and I’m feeling pretty proud of my handiwork. —Liam Forrest

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Why Rear Upper Suspension Arm Is Necessary

From my experience working with vehicle suspensions, I’ve found that the rear upper suspension arm plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and control. It helps keep the wheel aligned properly while the car is moving, especially when going over bumps or around corners. Without it, the rear wheels would have excessive movement, making the ride feel unstable and unsafe.

I’ve noticed that the rear upper suspension arm also contributes significantly to the overall handling of the vehicle. It controls the camber and toe angles of the rear wheels, which directly affects tire wear and traction. For me, having a solid and well-functioning rear upper suspension arm means better grip on the road and a smoother driving experience, even during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.

In short, the rear upper suspension arm is necessary because it ensures the rear wheels stay in the correct position relative to the car body. This not only improves safety but also enhances comfort and performance, something I value every time I get behind the wheel.

My Buying Guides on Rear Upper Suspension Arm

When I first needed to replace my rear upper suspension arm, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any part off the shelf. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make a confident choice. Here’s my step-by-step guide to buying the right rear upper suspension arm for your vehicle.

Understanding the Rear Upper Suspension Arm

Before diving into options, I made sure I fully understood what the rear upper suspension arm does. It’s a crucial component that connects the rear wheel hub to the chassis, helping maintain proper wheel alignment and absorbing road shocks. Knowing this helped me appreciate why quality and fitment matter so much.

Compatibility with My Vehicle

One of the first things I checked was whether the suspension arm was compatible with my car’s make, model, and year. I learned that even slight differences in design can cause issues, so I always recommend looking up your vehicle’s specifications or consulting your owner’s manual. Many parts listings include compatibility charts, which were really helpful for me.

Material Quality and Durability

I found that rear upper suspension arms come in various materials like stamped steel, forged steel, or aluminum. I opted for forged steel because it offered a great balance of strength and durability for my daily driving needs. If you drive in harsh conditions or want a performance upgrade, considering higher-grade materials is worth it.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Options

I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket alternatives. OEM parts matched my car’s original specs perfectly, giving me peace of mind about fit and quality. However, some aftermarket brands offer enhanced durability or improved designs at a lower price. I suggest weighing your budget against your performance needs to decide what suits you best.

Installation Considerations

Since I did the installation myself, I made sure to buy a suspension arm that came with all the necessary hardware and clear instructions. If you’re planning to hire a mechanic, double-check whether the part requires any special tools or alignment after installation. Proper installation is key to safety and performance.

Price and Warranty

Price was an important factor for me, but I didn’t want to compromise on quality. I compared prices across several suppliers and looked for parts with a warranty. A good warranty gave me confidence that the manufacturer stood behind their product, which is always reassuring.

Reading Reviews and Seeking Recommendations

Finally, I read customer reviews and asked for recommendations on automotive forums. Hearing from others who had similar vehicles and needs helped me avoid common pitfalls and find the most reliable brands.

Final Thoughts

Buying a rear upper suspension arm can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into these key areas made the process manageable for me. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and trusted brands, you can find a part that keeps your vehicle safe and performing well for miles to come. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice for your ride!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.