Clunks from the rear suspension (trailing links and A-frame)
Will get worse if left.
Symptoms
Clunks over bumps and when pulling away, vague rear end, rear axle steering slightly on corners.
Likely cause
Worn rear trailing link bushes or a worn A-frame ball joint.
Suggested fixes
Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.
- 1
Replace the trailing link bushes
Press in new bushes or fit complete links. Tighten the bolts with the vehicle on its wheels so the bushes are not preloaded.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate DIY
- Cost:
- £ (Under about £50 in parts)
- 2
Replace the A-frame ball joint
Lever the A-frame to check for play. A worn joint lets the axle move side to side.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate DIY
- Cost:
- £ (Under about £50 in parts)
This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.
Related faults
- SuspensionMedium severity
Sagging or broken coil springs
Vehicle leans, sits low at one corner, or a clunk is heard over bumps. A broken coil end may be visible at the spring seat.
90 / 110 / 127 · Defender3 fixes - SuspensionLow severity
Bouncy ride and poor handling from worn shock absorbers
Vehicle keeps bouncing after a bump, wallowing on corners, oil on the shock body, knocking from the mounts.
Series I · Series II / IIA · Series III · 90 / 110 / 127 · Defender2 fixes