Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Rear Suspension Description and Operation

Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual / Chassis / Suspension / Rear Suspension Description and Operation

This vehicle has a beam rear suspension system consisting of the following components:

An axle with integral trailing arms
A cross beam
Two coil springs
Two standard shock absorbers

Axle Assembly

The axle assembly attaches to the underbody through a rubber bushing and bracket located at the front of each integral trailing arm. The brackets are bolted to the underbody side rails. The axle structure itself maintains the geometrical relationship of the wheels relative to the centerline of the body.

Rear camber and tow are not adjustable. Replace any damaged suspension components as necessary.

Coil Spring: The coil springs support the weight of the vehicle in the rear. Rubber insulators isolate the coil spring at the upper and lower spring seat.

Shock Absorber: The shock absorbers are connected to the rear axle and the vehicle underbody. The shock absorbers are non-adjustable and non-refillable. Service of the shocks requires replacement of the shock assembly.

Wheel Bearing/Hub Assembly

A single hub and bearing assembly is bolted to both ends of the rear axle assembly. The hub and bearing assembly is a sealed unit that eliminates the need for wheel bearing adjustment or periodic maintenance.

Although the rear suspension components are lubricated for life and require no routine lubrication, they should be inspected periodically for damage and wear.

Rear Axle Replacement

Removal Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle. Remove the tires and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation ...

Special Tools

Illustration Tool Number/ Description CH-24319-B CH-43631 J-24319-B J-43631 Ball Joint Remover ...

Other materials:

Engine Oil Change
When a %CHANGE message displays in the DIC, have the engine oil and filter changed within the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven under the best conditions, the engine oil life system might not indicate the need for vehicle service for more than a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed ...

Radio Antenna Replacement
Radio Antenna Replacement Callout Component Name 1 Radio Antenna Procedure Rotate the mast counterclockwise in order to release the mast from the antenna base. ...

Front Wheel Drive Shaft Inner Joint and Boot Replacement
Special Tools DT-35910 Drive Axle Boot Clamp Pliers For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools. Disassemble Procedure Note: There are types of inner joints available. If the inner joint is connected with the CV style joint, the inner joint is not serviced separa ...

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