Treadworks® provides Sway Bar Link Replacement services to Farmington, NM, Kirtland, NM, Durango, CO, and surrounding areas

The Purpose & Proper Operation of the Sway Bar Link

A sway bar link is part of a vehicle's suspension system, connecting the sway bar (or stabilizer bar) to the vehicle’s suspension. The sway bar itself is designed to reduce body roll and help maintain stability when the vehicle turns or maneuvers on uneven road surfaces. Sway bar links play a crucial role in this process, transferring the force from the sway bar to the suspension and the rest of the vehicle.

Each end of the sway bar is connected to the suspension through these links, which typically consist of small rods with bushings or ball joints on each end. These joints allow for the necessary movement and flexibility, enabling the sway bar to perform its stabilizing function effectively.

Over time, sway bar links can wear out or become damaged, leading to a decrease in vehicle stability and handling, often accompanied by noticeable noises (like clunking or rattling) when driving over bumps or during turns. When this happens, it is recommended to have them inspected and potentially replaced by a professional mechanic to ensure your vehicle remains safe and operates correctly.

When Should I Replace the Sway Bar Links?

Here are some key indicators:

• Unusual Noise: One common sign that there is a sway bar link failure is unusual noise coming from the vehicle's suspension, especially when driving over bumps or during turns. These sounds include clunking, rattling, and knocking.
• Poor Handling: If your car feels less stable than usual when making sharp turns or maneuvers, it could indicate that the sway bar links are not transferring the force from the sway bar to the suspension effectively.
• Visual Damage: If you see visible damage or wear to the sway bar links, such as cracks and rust, or if they appear to be bent, it's important to have them replaced.
• Excessive Movement: Excessive or abnormal movement in the sway bar links when the vehicle is pushed up and down can signal worn out or damaged links. They should maintain a certain rigidity to counteract the sway or roll of the vehicle.

It's a good idea to get your car inspected by a professional mechanic of you believe you need new sway bar links installed. The mechanic can determine whether the sway bar links are the issue or if something else is causing the problem. Sway bar links are typically replaced in pairs, even if only one side shows signs of wear or damage. This practice ensures that both sides of the vehicle maintain equal stability and handling characteristics, providing a balanced driving experience. Replacing both links together helps to prevent uneven wear and tear, as both sides will be starting from the same condition of wear.

Need to replace the sway bar links? You're at the right place! With our qualified mechanics and commitment to quality, we ensure your vehicle is in the best hands. At Treadworks® in Farmington, NM and Kirtland, NM, as well as J/P Tire in Durango, CO, you're never too far from safe, reliable, and effective automotive care.

Visit us today and get back to enjoying a stable ride!

Areas Served : Farmington, NM | Kirtland, NM | Durango, CO | and surrounding areas