Rear trailing arm bushings
 

Greetings! New poster here from Tulsa, OK with a question about rtab... I have a '98 328iC with the original rear trailing arms (107k miles). Due to terrible tire wear I went to my tire shop to find the trouble and was informed that my rear trailing arm bushings are very worn. They said it was not possible to replace just the bushings as it only comes complete (and quoted me $1700.00!!!). Another shop said if they are the original rta then they have to be replaced but with aftermarket rta the bushings only can be replaced. I don't know who to believe at this point! So, can the bushings only be replaced on my original rta? If so what should I expect to pay for parts and labor? Is there a "better" aftermarket bushing that anybody can recommend? If the entire rta needs to be replaced, what's a fair price for that? Thanks!

Check the "Knowledgebase" link, right next to the "Home" link here, I think there's a very good write up on just what you're asking.

Thanks rpm... I did read the diy link, but I don't think it's something I want to attempt on my own. I also could not find any info on whether you have to replace the entire original rta or whether the bushing only is replaceable. Also could not find any pricing on what this might cost.

I agree, the job can be a bit much to do. I'm rather confused, however, about what the second shop said. I checked the Bentley manual, they have a specific entry on replacing the rtab, bascially it says remove the arm, push out the old bushing, press in the new (properly measured), realign and away you go.

Thanks! I am just trying to determine if I need to replace the entire rta or only the bushing... I think you've answered my question! Hopefully it will be much less expensive than the $1700 my tire shop quoted me to completely replace both rear trailing arms. thanks again for your help!

I am in the process of getting quotes for this job... Anyone care to speculate what replacing the rear trailing arm bushings (E36) might cost in the retail market today? Thanks!