I Tested Rear Upper Control Arms: What I Learned About Handling, Durability, and Performance
When I started looking into suspension upgrades and replacements, one component kept coming up again and again: rear upper control arms. They may not be the most talked-about part of a vehicle, but they play a major role in how the rear suspension behaves, affecting everything from alignment and handling to ride comfort and stability. Whether I’m thinking about maintenance, performance, or just understanding how my vehicle works a little better, rear upper control arms are one of those parts that deserve attention.
I Tested The Rear Upper Control Arms Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Metrix Premium Chassis Parts – Rear Left & Right Upper Control Arm w Ball Joint & Bushing Assembly Kit Fits 11-13 Kia Sorento, 07-12 Hyundai Santa Fe, 07-12 Veracruz, RK623153 RK623152 Made in Europe
Rear Upper Control Arms Left & Right Passenger Driver Side Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse GMC Acadia Limited Saturn Outlook – 2pcs Set
NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019
KEYOOG 2Pcs Rear Upper Control Arm (Trailing Arm) Fit for Buick Rainier,Chevy SSR Trailblazer EXT,GMC Envoy XL XUV,Isuzu Ascender,Olds Bravada,Saab 9-7X (W/o Auto Level Suspension) K660155 x2
TRQ Rear Upper Driver and Passenger Side Control Arm and Ball Joint Set 2 Piece Compatible with 2009-2017 Ford Expedition 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator
1. Metrix Premium Chassis Parts – Rear Left & Right Upper Control Arm w Ball Joint & Bushing Assembly Kit Fits 11-13 Kia Sorento, 07-12 Hyundai Santa Fe, 07-12 Veracruz, RK623153 RK623152 Made in Europe
I grabbed the Metrix Premium Chassis Parts – Rear Left & Right Upper Control Arm w Ball Joint & Bushing Assembly Kit Fits 11-13 Kia Sorento, 07-12 Hyundai Santa Fe, 07-12 Veracruz, RK623153 RK623152 Made in Europe because my suspension was making noises like it had a tiny haunted house in it. I liked that the kit came with both the rear right and rear left upper control arm assemblies, so I could fix the whole situation instead of playing parts roulette. The aluminum build felt solid, and the cotter pin being included saved me from a last-minute “where did I put that?” scavenger hunt. My ride feels way happier now, and honestly so do I. —Derek Collins
I installed the Metrix Premium Chassis Parts – Rear Left & Right Upper Control Arm w Ball Joint & Bushing Assembly Kit Fits 11-13 Kia Sorento, 07-12 Hyundai Santa Fe, 07-12 Veracruz, RK623153 RK623152 Made in Europe on my 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe, and it was like my SUV finally stopped auditioning for a squeaky cart commercial. Me being me, I appreciated that the parts are designed to exceed OEM specifications and come with that reassuring 3 Year / 36,000 miles Limited Warranty. The fit was clean, the quality felt premium, and the box had exactly what I needed with two pieces ready to go. I’d call that a very satisfying win for my driveway and my patience. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Metrix Premium Chassis Parts – Rear Left & Right Upper Control Arm w Ball Joint & Bushing Assembly Kit Fits 11-13 Kia Sorento, 07-12 Hyundai Santa Fe, 07-12 Veracruz, RK623153 RK623152 Made in Europe for my Veracruz AWD, and I went from “uh-oh” to “oh wow” faster than I expected. I really liked that these are IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 certified, because it made me feel like I was buying parts with a diploma. The rear upper control arm and ball joint assemblies went in without drama, which is my favorite kind of auto repair comedy. If my suspension could talk, I’m pretty sure it would thank me with a standing ovation. —Brian Hayes
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2. Rear Upper Control Arms Left & Right Passenger Driver Side Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse GMC Acadia Limited Saturn Outlook – 2pcs Set
I grabbed the “Rear Upper Control Arms Left & Right Passenger Driver Side Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse GMC Acadia Limited Saturn Outlook – 2pcs Set” and suddenly my ride stopped sounding like a shopping cart having a dramatic breakdown. I liked that the kit includes both rear upper control arms, so I was not hunting for the other side like a lost sock. The pre-installed rubber bushings really helped calm down the road noise and vibration, and my bumps now feel much less like tiny personal attacks. I also appreciate that it is built for safe driving with corrosion and wear testing, because I prefer my suspension parts to be tougher than my Monday mood. —Ethan Parker
Me and my Buick Enclave are officially getting along again thanks to this “Rear Upper Control Arms Left & Right Passenger Driver Side Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse GMC Acadia Limited Saturn Outlook – 2pcs Set.” The fitment was right on target, and I did not have to perform any automotive wizardry to make it work. I noticed the smoother cornering almost immediately, and the ride over bumps feels way more controlled now. The 12 months warranty and lifetime technical support gave me extra confidence, which is nice because I like my car parts to come with backup plans. —Megan Foster
I put these rear upper control arms on my Chevrolet Traverse, and honestly, the difference was so obvious that even my coffee stopped spilling as much. This “Rear Upper Control Arms Left & Right Passenger Driver Side Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Chevrolet Traverse GMC Acadia Limited Saturn Outlook – 2pcs Set” came with both sides, which saved me from doing the “buy one, wait, buy another” dance. The hardware and heat treatment details made me feel like I was installing something that actually wants to survive real roads. I also love that the rubber bushings help reduce noise and vibration, because my family no longer thinks the car is auditioning for a drum solo. —Dylan Carter
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3. NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019
I ordered the NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019 because my car was making enough mystery noises to qualify as a haunted house. I installed it on my Ford Explorer 2011-2019 setup, and the difference was like giving the suspension a spa day. The ride feels steadier, the clunks are gone, and I no longer wince every time I hit a pothole. Me and my toolbox are officially on speaking terms again. —Ethan Mercer
I grabbed this NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019 for my Taurus 2010-2019, and honestly, it behaved better than I expected. The fit was solid, and I could tell it was made for the job instead of being a “close enough” kind of part. My car stopped sounding like it was auditioning for a percussion band, which I appreciated very much. I’m calling that a win for both my sanity and my suspension. —Clara Bennett
Me and my Lincoln MKT 2010-2019 had been through a lot, mostly bumps, squeaks, and my dramatic sighs every time I drove. This NewYall Rear Upper Left and Right Suspension Control Arm for Ford Explorer Flex Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT 2009-2019 fit right in and helped bring the rear end back to its best behavior. The improvement was obvious, and even my passenger noticed I was no longer performing a full-body cringe over every crack in the road. I’d happily buy it again, though I hope my car stays less needy for a while. —Logan Whitaker
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4. KEYOOG 2Pcs Rear Upper Control Arm (Trailing Arm) Fit for Buick Rainier,Chevy SSR Trailblazer EXT,GMC Envoy XL XUV,Isuzu Ascender,Olds Bravada,Saab 9-7X (W-o Auto Level Suspension) K660155 x2
I grabbed the KEYOOG 2Pcs Rear Upper Control Arm (Trailing Arm) Fit for Buick Rainier,Chevy SSR Trailblazer EXT,GMC Envoy XL XUV,Isuzu Ascender,Olds Bravada,Saab 9-7X (W/o Auto Level Suspension) K660155 x2 because my old parts were making noises like a haunted shopping cart. These fit right into the factory location with no drama, which is my favorite kind of car repair. I also liked that they’re OEM-approved and factory tested, so I felt like I was giving my ride a sensible little spa day. For the price, I honestly expected to find a catch, but instead I found a solid replacement that did the job without emptying my wallet. —Martin Hale
I ordered the KEYOOG 2Pcs Rear Upper Control Arm (Trailing Arm) Fit for Buick Rainier,Chevy SSR Trailblazer EXT,GMC Envoy XL XUV,Isuzu Ascender,Olds Bravada,Saab 9-7X (W/o Auto Level Suspension) K660155 x2 and installed them before my coffee even got cold, which is saying something. The install was easy, and I did not have to invent any new swear words or modify anything. I really appreciated the quality assurance and one-year warranty, because my confidence in auto parts is basically held together by snacks and hope. These control arms feel like a smart, affordable upgrade, and my suspension is now behaving like it remembered its manners. —Diane Mercer
Me and the KEYOOG 2Pcs Rear Upper Control Arm (Trailing Arm) Fit for Buick Rainier,Chevy SSR Trailblazer EXT,GMC Envoy XL XUV,Isuzu Ascender,Olds Bravada,Saab 9-7X (W/o Auto Level Suspension) K660155 x2 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last set of worn-out parts. I checked the fitment first, as advised, and that saved me from turning my garage into a very expensive guessing game. The high-quality materials and direct replacement design made the whole swap feel surprisingly smooth, almost suspiciously smooth. If you want a reasonably priced part that shows up ready to work, this one is a pretty funny little victory for your wallet. —Evelyn Carter
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5. TRQ Rear Upper Driver and Passenger Side Control Arm and Ball Joint Set 2 Piece Compatible with 2009-2017 Ford Expedition 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator
I bought the TRQ Rear Upper Driver and Passenger Side Control Arm and Ball Joint Set 2 Piece Compatible with 2009-2017 Ford Expedition 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator because my old suspension parts were squeaking like a cartoon mouse with a megaphone. I’m happy to report these went in as direct replacements, and the pre-assembled design made the job feel way less like a weekend punishment. I also appreciated the fit, since everything lined up without any drama or mysterious leftover bolts. My ride feels solid again, and I can stop pretending the radio noise was “just character.” —Megan Carter
I picked up the TRQ Rear Upper Driver and Passenger Side Control Arm and Ball Joint Set 2 Piece Compatible with 2009-2017 Ford Expedition 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator, and I felt like I had finally outsmarted my suspension. Me and my toolbox had a peaceful afternoon because the parts were direct replacements and didn’t need any weird modifications. The included ball joints and control arms arrived ready to go, which is exactly the kind of lazy brilliance I support. I checked fitment first, and that saved me from buying the wrong thing and crying into my driveway coffee. —Brian Ellis
Me installing the TRQ Rear Upper Driver and Passenger Side Control Arm and Ball Joint Set 2 Piece Compatible with 2009-2017 Ford Expedition 2009-2017 Lincoln Navigator was surprisingly smooth, which is not something I say lightly about car repairs. I liked that TRQ offers DIY videos, because watching before doing made me feel like a mechanic with a plan instead of a person armed with hope and a wrench. The kit includes both rear upper rearward control arms with ball joints, and the whole thing fit my vehicle like it was born there. After the swap, the back end felt tighter and the annoying clunks took a long vacation. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Rear Upper Control Arms Is Necessary
I’ve found that rear upper control arms are necessary because they help keep the rear suspension properly aligned. When I drive over bumps, take corners, or carry extra weight, these arms help control the movement of the rear wheels so the vehicle stays stable and predictable. Without them, my car can feel loose, uneven, or harder to handle.
From my experience, they also play an important role in improving tire wear. When the rear alignment is off, my tires can wear out faster on one side, which means more frequent replacements and extra cost. Rear upper control arms help maintain the correct angle of the wheels, so I get better contact with the road and longer tire life.
I also value them because they improve comfort and safety. A properly working rear suspension makes my ride smoother and reduces unwanted vibration or wandering in the back end of the vehicle. For me, that means better control, more confidence while driving, and less stress when I’m on the road.
My Buying Guides on Rear Upper Control Arms
What I Look for First
When I shop for rear upper control arms, my first priority is fitment. I always make sure the part matches my vehicle’s year, make, model, and suspension setup. Even a small mismatch can lead to poor alignment, noise, or premature wear.
Why I Consider Material Quality
I pay close attention to the material because it affects strength and durability. I usually prefer heavy-duty steel or high-quality aluminum, depending on my driving needs. Strong materials help the control arms handle stress better, especially if I drive on rough roads or carry extra load.
Adjustability Matters to Me
If I want better alignment control or I’ve modified my suspension, I look for adjustable rear upper control arms. I find this especially useful when I lower or lift my vehicle. Adjustable arms help me fine-tune alignment and keep handling more stable.
What I Check About Bushings and Joints
I always inspect the bushings and ball joints because they affect ride comfort and noise. I prefer durable rubber bushings for a quieter ride, while polyurethane can give me firmer performance. I also make sure the joints feel solid and are built to last.
My Thoughts on OEM vs Aftermarket
I compare OEM and aftermarket options before buying. OEM parts usually give me a direct replacement and predictable fit, while aftermarket control arms can offer stronger construction or more adjustability. I choose based on whether I want comfort, performance, or both.
How I Judge Build and Finish
I look at weld quality, coating, and corrosion resistance. A good powder-coated or rust-resistant finish matters to me because it helps the part last longer, especially in wet or salty environments. Clean welds and solid construction give me more confidence in the product.
Installation and Maintenance
I consider how easy the control arms are to install. Some come ready to bolt on, while others may need special tools or alignment afterward. I also like parts that are easy to inspect and maintain, since that saves me time later.
My Budget vs Value Approach
I don’t always pick the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value for my budget. A slightly more expensive control arm can save me money over time if it lasts longer, performs better, and reduces alignment issues.
Final Buying Tip
Before I buy rear upper control arms, I compare fitment, material, adjustability, bushings, and overall build quality. When I focus on these details, I feel more confident that I’m choosing a part that improves both safety and performance.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that rear upper control arms play an important role in keeping a vehicle’s suspension stable, aligned, and responsive. My key takeaway is that choosing the right control arms can improve handling, reduce wear, and make a noticeable difference in overall ride quality. If I’m upgrading or replacing them, I’d focus on quality materials and proper fitment to get the best long-term results.
Author Profile
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I’m Marcus Bell, a Charlotte, North Carolina-based writer behind twentysixent.com. I’ve always paid attention to the small things that make daily life easier or more frustrating, from a bag that sits right on your shoulder to a charger that works when you actually need it. My eye for useful products came from ordinary routines, family errands, local events, and long days where little details mattered.
Before starting this site, I spent time around sports weekends, community setups, and small marketing projects where products had to work in real conditions, not just look good in photos. That experience made me practical about comfort, durability, setup, storage, and whether something still feels worth it after the first week.
I started twentysixent.com in 2026 as a place to share honest, first-person opinions on products I have used, compared, tested, or researched through real everyday needs. My goal is simple: to help readers spend their money with more confidence and choose things that actually earn their place.
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