911 Rear Suspension Parts List: Your Complete Reference

The rear suspension on a Porsche 911 is not like that of a front-engine car. Because the engine sits behind the rear axle, the suspension has to manage both power delivery and mass distribution. A properly maintained rear suspension keeps your 911 stable under braking, responsive through corners, and predictable at high speeds. Whether you're restoring a classic 964, upgrading a 996, or refreshing a 991, this parts list covers every component you'll need.

Overview of the 911 Rear Suspension

Porsche has used several rear suspension architectures over the years. Air-cooled 911s (through the 993) feature a semi-trailing arm design with torsion bars or coil springs, depending on the model. Starting with the 996, Porsche switched to a multi-link setup often called the "LSA" (Lightweight Stable Agile) suspension. The 991 and 992 continue with a multi-link arrangement but with revised geometry and materials. Regardless of generation, the key components share similar functions, though part numbers and design details differ.

Complete 911 Rear Suspension Parts List

Control Arms and Trailing Arms

Control arms link the wheel hub to the chassis and control camber and toe angles. On semi-trailing arm cars (pre-996), the arm itself is a single large casting. On multi-link cars, there are upper and lower control arms, often made of aluminum to reduce unsprung weight. Common parts include:

• Lower control arm (left/right)
• Upper control arm (left/right)
• Trailing arm (if applicable)
• Integral link (also called the wishbone on 997/991)

When replacing arms, note that bushings are often pressed in. Many aftermarket arms come with upgraded spherical bearings for track use.

Springs and Coilovers

Rear springs support the vehicle weight and store energy. Options range from OEM coil springs to adjustable coilover kits. For torsion bar cars (early 911 through 1989), the torsion bars themselves are the spring; replace them in matched pairs. For coil spring cars (1989+), you'll find:

• Rear coil springs (various rates)
• Coilover conversion kits (threaded bodies, adjustable perch)
• Helper springs (for lowering without losing preload)

Aftermarket brands like H&R, Eibach, and Bilstein offer street and track kits.

Shock Absorbers (Dampers)

Dampers control spring oscillation. OEM shocks are hydraulic or gas-pressurized. Upgrades include monotube dampers, rebound-adjustable units, and electronically controlled ones (PASM cars). Common replacements:

• Rear shock absorbers (left/right)
• Shock mounts and hardware
• Dust boots and bump stops

Bilstein B6 and B8 are popular direct-fit options; Öhlins and KW offer more adjustability.

Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars)

Sway bars reduce body roll during cornering. The rear bar is often thinner than the front. Adjustable sway bars allow tuning of oversteer/understeer balance. Parts include:

• Rear sway bar (various diameters)
• Sway bar end links (OEM or adjustable)
• Mount bushings and brackets

For track use, a 22mm adjustable bar is common on 996/997.

Bushings and Mounts

Bushings isolate noise and allow controlled movement. Over time, rubber bushings degrade, causing sloppy handling. Replace with OEM rubber or polyurethane/ Delrin for sharper response. Key bushings:

• Control arm bushings (upper/lower)
• Trailing arm bushings
• Subframe mounts (often prone to cracking early models)
• Sway bar bushings

Elephant Racing and Powerflex offer upgraded options.

Wheel Bearings and Hubs

The wheel hub assembly includes the bearing, hub, and sometimes the ABS ring. Rear wheel bearings on 911s are robust but do wear. Symptoms include humming or play. Parts:

• Rear wheel bearing (sealed unit or separate race)
• Hub flange
• Castle nut and cotter pin

Always torque the axle nut to spec to prevent premature failure.

Toe Links and Camber Arms

Toe and camber adjustments are critical for tire wear and handling. On multi-link 911s, adjustable toe links and camber arms allow fine-tuning. Parts:

• Rear toe link (inner and outer, left/right)
• Rear camber arm (if separate)
• Adjustable tie rod ends

Aftermarket arms with rod ends provide the widest range.

Subframe and Crossmember Components

The rear subframe (or axle carrier) holds the suspension and differential. On some generations, it can be reinforced. Parts include:

• Rear subframe (also called rear crossmember)
• Subframe mount bolts
• Reinforcement plates (for track or high mileage)

On 996/997, cracked subframe mounts are a known issue; replace with upgraded parts.

Hardware and Fasteners

Never reuse suspension bolts. Most are stretch-to-yield and should be replaced with new ones. Common hardware:

• Strut/shock upper nut
• Control arm bolts (factory torque-to-yield)
• Sway bar bracket bolts
• Axle nut (always replace)

Sets from Porsche or aftermarket suppliers like Belmetric are convenient.

OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: What to Choose

For daily driving and street performance, OEM parts provide reliable fit and longevity. Aftermarket parts are worth considering when you need adjustability, lighter weight, or more aggressive damping/spring rates. Stick to reputable brands like Bilstein, H&R, Porsche (Tein), Öhlins, and Elephant Racing. Avoid cheap no-name parts—they often fail quickly and can compromise safety.

Signs Your 911 Rear Suspension Needs Attention

• Clunking or knocking from the rear over bumps
• Uneven or accelerated tire wear (especially inside edge)
• Car feels loose or unstable in corners
• Steering wheel not centered after driving straight
• Rear end sags or sits unevenly
• Vibration at highway speeds

Address these promptly; worn suspension can lead to costly secondary damage.

Final Recommendations

Start with a thorough inspection. For street cars, replace all rubber bushings with OEM or polyurethane when components are disassembled. If you track your 911, invest in adjustable control arms, a stiffer sway bar, and monotube shocks. Always replace bolts and nuts with new ones, and torque everything to factory specs. A refreshed rear suspension transforms the 911’s handling—making it safer and more enjoyable. Keep this parts list handy when ordering from your preferred supplier.