Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Suspension Rear All sections

Rear Suspension System Cadillac ATS I

Suspension Rear 17 illustrations ~1436 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
Adjust Link Inner Nut (1)
First Pass10074 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Adjust Link Outer Bolt (1)
First Pass7052 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Lower Control Arm Inner Nut (1)
First Pass11585 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Lower Control Arm Outer Nut (1)
First Pass150110 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Rear Suspension Bracket Front Bolts (1)5843 lb ft
Rear Suspension Bracket Bolts (1)
First Pass10074 lb ft
Final PassPlus 90 degrees
Rear Suspension Bracket Nuts5843 lb ft
Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Bolt13096 lb ft
Shock Absorber Bolt (1)
First Pass10074 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Shock Absorber Upper Nuts4332 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Clamp Bolts (1)2216 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Link Bolt (1)5843 lb ft
Stabilizer Shaft Link Nut4332 lb ft
Trailing Arm Lower Control Arm Inner Nut (1)
First Pass7052 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Trailing Arm Lower Control Arm Outer Nut (1)
First Pass10074 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Trailing Arm Upper Control Arm Inner Nut (1)
First Pass7052 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Trailing Arm Upper Control Arm Outer Nut (1)
First Pass10074 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Upper Control Arm Inner Nut (1)
First Pass7052 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
Upper Control Arm Outer Nut (1)
First Pass7052 lb ft
Final PassPlus 105 degrees
NOTE: (1) Torque to yield fastener in use, requires new bolt.
NOTE
(1) Torque to yield fastener in use, requires new bolt.

Fastener Tightening Specifications

Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers

ApplicationType of MaterialGM Part Number
United StatesCanada
Wheel Bearing and Hub BoltThreadlocker8902129710953488

Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the rear brake rotor assembly. Refer to Rear Brake Rotor Replacement . Separate the wheel drive shaft from the wheel bearing hub assembly. Refer to Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement
1Wheel Bearing and Hub Bolt (Qty: 3) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Procedure Prepare the wheel bearing and hub bolts and the threaded holes of the wheel bearing and hub for assembly. Thoroughly clean the threadlocker residue from the wheel bearing and hub bolt threads with an approved solvent and allow to dry. Thoroughly clean the threadlocker residue from the wheel bearing and hub threaded holes with an approved solvent and allow to dry. Apply threadlocker to 2/3 of the threaded length of the wheel bearing and hub bolts and the wheel bearing and hub threaded holes. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers . Ensure there are no gaps in the threadlocker along the filled area of the wheel bearing and hub bolts and the wheel bearing and hub threaded holes. Allow the threadlocker to cure approximately 10 minutes before installation. Tighten 130 (96 lb ft)
2Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: Knuckle Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Using a suitable hydraulic jack, support the lower control arm. Remove the rear wheel speed sensor. Refer to Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement . Remove the rear brake backing plate. Refer to Rear Brake Backing Plate Replacement . Disconnect the upper control arm from the knuckle. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement . Disconnect the adjust link from the knuckle. Refer to Adjust Link Replacement . Disconnect the lower stabilizer link bolt from the knuckle. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement . Disconnect the upper and lower trailing arms form the knuckle. Refer to Trailing Arm Replacement (Upper) , Trailing Arm Replacement (Lower) .
1Knuckle Assembly. Procedure Align the rear end. Refer to Rear Camber Adjustment , and Rear Toe Adjustment .

Knuckle Replacement

Removal Procedure

Note. The following service procedure is to be performed one side at a time.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/hoistjack/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the under body air deflector. Refer to «Underbody Rear Air Deflector Replacement - Left Side»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , or «Underbody Rear Air Deflector Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  3. Using a suitable jack stand, support the rear drive axle.
  4. Position a block of wood and a adjustable jack stand (1) between the frame of the vehicle and the suspension bracket.
  5. Using the block of wood and the adjustable jack stand (1), rise the vehicle just enough to reposition the hoist pad (2) from under the vehicle.
  6. Remove and discard the front and rear mounting bolts (1) and (2) for the rear suspension bracket (3). Do NOT reuse the mounting bolts. Replace with NEW only.
  7. Remove the rear suspension bracket (3) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

  1. Position the rear suspension bracket (3) to the vehicle.
  2. Install 2 NEW front bracket bolts (1) and tighten to 58 (43 lb ft)
  3. Install a NEW rear bracket bolt (2) and tighten to: First Pass: 100 (74 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 90 degrees
  4. Reposition the hoist lift pad (2) back underneath the vehicle.
  5. Using the adjustable jack stand (1) and the block of wood, slowly lower the vehicle back on the hoist pad (2).
  6. Remove the adjustable jack stand (1) and the block of wood from underneath the vehicle.
  7. Install the under body air deflector. Refer to «Underbody Rear Air Deflector Replacement - Left Side»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) , or «Underbody Rear Air Deflector Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  8. Remove the suitable support from the rear drive axle.
  9. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: Rear Suspension Bracket Replacement (Rear)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
1Rear Suspension Bracket Nut (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten 58 (43 lb ft)
2Rear Suspension Bracket
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Rear Suspension Bracket Replacement (Rear)

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Stabilizer Shaft Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer top Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the upper stabilizer link nuts from the stabilizer shaft. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement . Remove the stabilizer shaft insulators. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement . In order to gain enough room to manipulate the stabilizer shaft out of the vehicle, disconnect the two rubber exhaust hangers on the front side of the muffler. Refer to Exhaust System Replacement (LFX) , for LFX Engines or Exhaust Muffler Replacement (LCV) , Exhaust Muffler Replacement (LTG) for LCV or LTG Engines.
1Stabilizer Shaft

Stabilizer Shaft Replacement

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
1Rear Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Clamp Bolt (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Procedure Remove the rear stabilizer shaft insulator clamp bolts. Tighten 22 (16 lb ft)
2Rear Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Clamp
3Rear Stabilizer Shaft Insulator
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Replacement

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the rear suspension lower control arm cover. Refer to Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement .
1Stabilizer Shaft Link Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Procedure Using the proper size allen wrench, hold the upper stabilizer shaft ball stud. Remove the upper stabilizer shaft link nut. NOTE: DO NOT allow the upper stabilizer shaft ball stud to rotate. Tighten 43 (32 lb ft)
2Stabilizer Shaft Link Bolt Procedure Remove the stabilizer shaft bolt. Tighten 58 (43 lb ft)
3Stabilizer Shaft Link
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
DO NOT allow the upper stabilizer shaft ball stud to rotate.

Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement

Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection

Note. The shock absorber assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.

Note. A light film of oil on the top portion of the lower shock absorber tube is normal. DO NOT replace the shock absorber for this condition.

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection

Condition 1

Oil or fluid residue only on the bottom or top of the shock absorber and not originating from the shaft seal, is not a shock absorber related problem. DO NOT replace the shock absorber, look for other external leaks.

Condition 2

Light film/residue on approximately 1/3 (a) or less of the lower shock tube (A) and originating from the shaft seal, is a NORMAL condition. DO NOT replace the shock absorber.

Condition 3

Oil drip or trail down the lower shock tube and originating from the shaft seal, is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber.

Condition 4

An extreme wet film of oil covering more than 1/3 (b) of the lower shock tube and originating from the shaft seal (B), is an ABNORMAL condition. Replace the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement .

Inspection

  1. Verify the customer's concern is present. If the concern is present, continue to the next step. If the concern is not present, then the vehicle is operating normally.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/hoistjack/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  3. Visually inspect each of the shock absorbers for external fluid leaks. Refer to the following conditions 1, 2 , 3 , and 4 for visual inspection. If conditions 1 or 2 are found, continue to step 4. If conditions 3 or 4 are found, replace shock absorber. Refer to «Shock Absorber Replacement»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/suspension-rear/#rear-suspension-system) .
  4. If equipped with electronic suspension control system, ensure that the system is working properly. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Electronic Suspension Control.
  5. Use your hands in order to lift up and push down on each corner of the vehicle 3 times. Remove your hands from the vehicle. If the corner motion exceeds 2 cycles, replace the shock absorber. If the shock absorber does not exceed 2 cycles, NO repair is necessary.
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/hoistjack/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  3. Remove the rear wheelhouse panel liner. Refer to «Rear Wheelhouse Liner Replacement»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  4. Remove the rear suspension lower control arm cover . Refer to «Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/suspension-rear/#rear-suspension-system) .
  5. Using a hydraulic jack, support the rear lower control arm.
  6. Remove and discard the lower rear shock absorber bolt (1).
  7. Remove the rear shock absorber electrical connection, if applicable.
  8. Remove the 3 upper shock absorber nuts (1).
  9. Remove the rear shock absorber (1) from the vehicle.
  1. Position the shock absorber (1) in the vehicle.
  2. Install the 3 upper shock absorber nuts (1) and tighten to 43 (32 lb ft).
  3. Install the rear shock absorber electrical connection, if applicable.
  4. Install the lower rear shock absorber bolt (1). Tighten First Pass: 100 (74 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
  5. Remove the hydraulic jack from the lower control arm.
  6. Install the rear wheelhouse panel liner. Refer to «Rear Wheelhouse Liner Replacement»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  7. Install the rear suspension lower control arm cover. Refer to «Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/suspension-rear/#rear-suspension-system) .
  8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/cadillac/ats/i-2012-2014/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  9. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

Shock Absorber Disposal

WARNINGGas charged shock absorbers contain high pressure gas. Do not remove the snap ring from inside the top of the tube. If the snap ring is removed, the contents of the shock absorber will come out with extreme force which may result in personal injury.
WARNINGTo prevent personal injury, wear safety glasses when centerpunching and drilling the shock absorber. Use care not to puncture the shock absorber tube with the centerpunch.
  1. Make an indentation 10 mm (0.4 in) from the bottom of the tube (3) using a centerpunch.
  2. Clamp the shock absorber in a vise horizontally with the shock absorber rod (1) completely extended.
  3. Drill a hole in the shock absorber at the centerpunch (4) using a 5 mm (3/16 in) drill bit. Gas or a gas/oil mixture will exhaust when the drill bit penetrates the shock absorber. Use shop towels in order to contain the escaping oil.
  4. Make an indentation in the middle (2) of the tube (3) with a centerpunch.
  5. Drill a second hole in the shock absorber at the centerpunch (2) using a 5 mm (3/16 in) drill bit. Oil will exhaust when the drill bit penetrates the shock absorber. Use shop towels in order to contain the escaping oil.
  6. Remove the shock absorber from the vise. Hold the shock absorber over a drain pan horizontally with the holes down. Move the rod (1) in and out of the tube (3) to completely drain the oil from the shock absorber.

Scheme 8

Scheme 8: Rear Coil Spring Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
1Rear Coil Spring Lower Insulator Procedure When installing the lower insulator on the coil spring, ensure that the insulator stop is against the last coil on the spring. NOTE: The spring tag should be on the top side of coil spring, toward the upper insulator for correct installation of the coil spring and insulators.
2Rear Coil Spring Procedure When installing the coil spring, ensure that the coil spring is properly seated in both insulators.
3Rear Coil Spring Upper Insulator Procedure When installing the upper insulator on the coil spring, ensure that the insulator stop is against the last coil on the spring.
NOTE
The spring tag should be on the top side of coil spring, toward the upper insulator for correct installation of the coil spring and insulators.

Rear Coil Spring Replacement

Scheme 9

Scheme 9: Trailing Arm Replacement (Upper)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Using a hydraulic jack stand, support the rear knuckle. Remove the upper control arm outer nut and bolt only. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement
1Upper Trailing Arm Inner Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten First Pass: 70 (52 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
2Upper Trailing Arm Inner Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only.
3Upper Trailing Arm Outer Nut Tighten First Pass: 100 (74 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
4Upper Trailing Arm Outer Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only.
5Upper Trailing Arm Procedure Pull outward on the upper portion of the knuckle to allow clearance to remove the upper trailing arm. Verify the rear wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications .
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.

Trailing Arm Replacement (Upper)

Scheme 10

Scheme 10: Trailing Arm Replacement (Lower)
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Using a hydraulic jack stand, support the rear knuckle.
1Lower Trailing Arm Inner nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten First Pass: 70 (52 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
2Lower Trailing Arm Inner Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only.
3Lower Control Arm Outer Nut Tighten First Pass: 100 (74 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
4Lower Trailing Arm Outer Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only.
5Lower Trailing Arm Procedure Verify the rear wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications .
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.

Trailing Arm Replacement (Lower)

Scheme 11

Scheme 11: Adjust Link Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Rear Suspension Adjust Link Inner Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . NOTE: Ensure the cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket. Tighten First Pass: 100 (74 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
2Rear Suspension Adjust Link Inner Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Remove and discard the inner bolt. DO NOT re-use. Replace with NEW only. NOTE: Ensure the cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket.
3Rear Suspension Adjust Link Outer Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . NOTE: Discard the outer bolt. DO NOT re-use. Replace with NEW only Tighten First Pass: 70 (52 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
4Rear Suspension Adjust Link Procedure Align the rear end of the vehicle. Refer to Rear Toe Adjustment . NOTE: Note the orientation of the adjust link when removing for proper installation. Flat side of adjust link should face front of vehicle.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
Ensure the cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
NOTE
Ensure the cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
Discard the outer bolt. DO NOT re-use. Replace with NEW only
NOTE
Note the orientation of the adjust link when removing for proper installation. Flat side of adjust link should face front of vehicle.

Adjust Link Replacement

Scheme 12

Scheme 12: Upper Control Arm Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Using a hydraulic jack stand, support the rear knuckle. Disconnect rear wheel speed sensor harness.
1Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Inner Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten First Pass: 70 (52 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
2Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Inner Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the inner bolt. Do Not reuse. Replace with NEW only.
3Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Outer Nut Tighten First Pass: 70 (52 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
4Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Outer Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Remove and discard the outer bolt. Do Not reuse. Replace with NEW only.
5Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Procedure Verify the rear wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications .
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.

Upper Control Arm Replacement

Scheme 13

Scheme 13: Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the rear lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement NOTE: Support the rear knuckle with a suitable jack stand.
1Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Bushing Procedure Using the DT-50806-2 , DT-50806-7 and the J-45725-2 bushing remover installer , remove and install the lower control arm bushing. Special Tools DT-50806 Bushing Remover Installer J-45725-2 Bushing Remover Installer For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .
NOTE
Support the rear knuckle with a suitable jack stand.

Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement

Scheme 14

Scheme 14: Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise the support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
1Push Pin Fastener (Qty: 4) Procedure Using the appropriate tool, release the push pin fastener on the lower control arm cover. NOTE: Ensure push pin fastener is correctly installed through both the rear suspension lower control arm cover and lower control arm.
2Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover NOTE: Rear suspension lower control arm covers are not interchangeable from left to right side. Install covers on same side they were removed.
NOTE
Ensure push pin fastener is correctly installed through both the rear suspension lower control arm cover and lower control arm.
NOTE
Rear suspension lower control arm covers are not interchangeable from left to right side. Install covers on same side they were removed.

Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement

Scheme 15

Scheme 15: Lower Control Arm Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the rear suspension lower control arm cover. Refer to Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Cover Replacement . Disconnect the electronic suspension rear sensor link from the lower control arm. Refer to Electronic Suspension Rear Position Sensor Replacement . Remove the shock absorber nut and bolt. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement . Remove the lower trailing arm. Refer to Trailing Arm Replacement (Upper) , Trailing Arm Replacement (Lower) . Support the lower control arm with a suitable hydraulic jack.
1Lower Control Arm Inner Nut CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . NOTE: Ensure that cam washer is sitting flat against the lower control arm. Tighten First Pass: 115 (85 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
2Lower Control Arm Inner Washer
3Lower Control Arm Inner Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Discard lower control arm bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only. NOTE: Ensure that cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket.
4Lower Control Arm Outer Nut Tighten First Pass: 150 (110 lb ft) Final Pass: plus 105 degrees
5Lower Control Arm Outer Bolt CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component. Procedure Discard lower control arm outer bolt. DO NOT re-use, replace with NEW only.
6Lower Control Arm Procedure Transfer ride height sensor ball stud, if equipped. Check and adjust the rear camber for appropriate wheel. Refer to Rear Camber Adjustment . NOTE: The rear coil spring will disengage itself from the upper and lower spring seats when the lower control arm is removed.
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .
NOTE
Ensure that cam washer is sitting flat against the lower control arm.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
NOTE
Ensure that cam washer is sitting flat in the cradle bracket.
CAUTION
This vehicle is equipped with torque-to-yield or single use fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield or single use fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield or single use fastener could cause damage to the vehicle or component.
NOTE
The rear coil spring will disengage itself from the upper and lower spring seats when the lower control arm is removed.

Lower Control Arm Replacement

Scheme 16

Scheme 16: Wheel Stud Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Remove the rear wheel bearing and hub. Refer to Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .
1Wheel Stud Procedure Position the wheel bearing and hub assembly in a suitable vise. Using the CH-43631 remover , remove the wheel stud. Position NEW wheel stud in the wheel bearing and hub assembly. Using 3 or 4 washers and an old wheel nut, tighten the wheel nut until the NEW wheel stud is fully seated in the wheel bearing and hub assembly. Remove the washers and the wheel nut. Special Tools CH-43631 Ball Joint Remover For regional equivalent tools, refer to Special Tools .

Wheel Stud Replacement

Description and Operation

The ATS has a 5 link independent rear suspension. The stamped steel suspension links attach to a steel rear cradle assembly and cast aluminum knuckle assemblies. The cradle assemble includes hydro-formed side rails and rubber body mounts for isolation. The coils springs work between the lower control arms and underbody and are isolated to the with urethane upper spring seats. The direct-acting solid steel stabilizer bar provides additional body roll stiffness. The base suspension package (FE2) also includes twin-tube passive damping shock absorbers.

The ATS sport suspension package (FE3) includes Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). MRC is an electronic real-time damping system that responds to road inputs within milliseconds to deliver precise body contact.

The ATS offers All Wheel Drive ( AWD) for improved traction on wet and icy roads.

The Rear Suspension Assemblies are

  1. Upper Trailing Arm Link Assembly
  2. Lower Trailing Arm
  3. Upper Lateral Link Assembly
  4. Toe Link
  5. Lower Control Arm
  6. Rear Cradle Assembly
  7. Coil Springs & Isolators
  8. Rear Stabilizer Bar, Links, Clamps and Bushings
  9. Twin Tube Shock Absorbers
  10. Rear Knuckle Assembly

Special Tools

Illustration Tool Number/ Description CH-43631 CH-49455 J-43631 Ball Joint Remover CH-45725 J-45725-2 Cradle Bushing Replacer DT-50806 Bushing Replacer

Scheme 17

Scheme 17: Special Tools