Should you replace sway bar links with struts?
The answer is no, however your mechanic may recommend replacing both sway bar links because both links usually wear at the same rate and if one is bad, the other may go soon too. Because of this, sway bar links are often replaced whenever a component (a strut or control arm) that the link is connected to is replaced.
How often should sway bar links be replaced?
Now, when it comes to the overall lifespan of the sway bar link, it will be from four to five years. However, if the roads have treated the car exceptionally well and the turns were not that sharp, you can expect them to last over five years.
Do sway bar links affect handling?
A sway bar link connects the end of the bar to the suspension itself. These links can become broken or damaged, which will adversely affect the handling of the vehicle.
What are the symptoms of bad stabilizer links?
Warning signs of a broken or bad sway bar link include clunks and squeaks. Over-steering or excessive lean through turns are also symptoms of worn sway bar links, but they can also be signs of larger problems with your vehicle’s suspension system.
Are sway bar links important?
The sway bar, also known as an anti-roll bar or stabilizer bar, is a vital part of your vehicle’s suspension system and keeps it level during cornering. The sway bar link maintains the camber angle of the inner wheels to control motion. Like many automotive parts, over time the sway bar links will wear out.
How much does it cost to replace sway bar end links?
If the issue does end up being with your sway bar links, the good news is that the sway bar link replacement cost is usually on the lower side. You can typically have sway bar links removed and replaced for somewhere between $75 and $150 per link, depending on which auto repair shop you take it to.
Can sway bar links cause clunking?
If the sway bar link breaks and loosens, it can make a rattling or clunking sound as it taps other parts of the suspension.
How tight should sway bar links be?
Tighten the sway bar link nut using a combination wrench to hold the bolt head and a torque wrench and socket to tighten the nut. Use caution when tightening the link: it only requires light torque, typically 10 to 20 foot-pounds.
Can sway bar links cause loose steering?
Since the stabilizer bar links are attached to the lower control arm, steering and handling are also negatively impacted when they begin to wear out. The steering wheel will appear to be “loose”, and the body will sway from left to right more due to the fact that the stabilizer bar links and bushings are wearing out.
When to replace sway bar links-testing autos?
An extremely worn out sway bar link can separate. This will cause your car to lean excessively in turns and feel less stable and secure on the road. A worn out sway bar link must be replaced to keep your vehicle safe. In a pickup truck, sway bar links have a slightly different design, see the lower photo.
Where are the sway bars on a car?
Sway bars are usually located at the front of the car and are bolted to the suspension on your vehicle. Depending on the make and model of your car, you may have only front sway bars links, or front and rear sway bar links.
How do you remove a sway bar link?
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may have only front sway bars links, or front and rear sway bar links. Step 7: Remove the lug nuts. Two lug nuts hold the sway bar link in place. Start by removing the upper nut first. This nut holds the most weight when the sway bar is at normal rest, so it tends to be the most problematic.
Is it possible to change more than one sway bar link?
If you are changing more than one sway bar link, simply repeat the steps on the other side. Replacing the sway bar links is a repair process that can be done with a few basic tools. If you don’t have access to the correct tools or are short on time, ask a certified mechanic from YourMechanic to replace the sway bar links for you.