How long does it take to replace a sway bar link?
Replacing a sway bar link, also known as a stabilizer link, is a relatively straightforward repair that can typically be completed in 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific vehicle and the mechanic's experience. The sway bar link is a crucial component that connects the sway bar to the vehicle's suspension, helping to stabilize the ride and improve handling.
What is a Sway Bar Link?
The sway bar, also called a stabilizer bar, is a metal rod that connects the left and right wheels of a vehicle. Its primary function is to reduce body roll during turns and cornering, providing a more stable and responsive ride. The sway bar link is the component that connects the sway bar to the vehicle's suspension, allowing the sway bar to effectively transfer forces between the wheels.
Why Replace a Sway Bar Link?
Sway bar links can wear out over time due to the constant stress and movement they experience. Common signs that a sway bar link needs to be replaced include:
- Excessive play or looseness in the link
- Clicking or clunking noises when driving over bumps
- Uneven tire wear or handling issues
- Visible damage or corrosion to the link
Replacing a worn sway bar link is important to maintain proper vehicle handling and safety.
How to Replace a Sway Bar Link
Replacing a sway bar link typically involves the following steps:
- Raise the vehicle and secure it on jack stands or a lift
- Locate the sway bar link, which is usually accessible from the wheel well
- Disconnect the sway bar link from the suspension and sway bar
- Install the new sway bar link, ensuring it is properly aligned and tightened
- Lower the vehicle and test the new sway bar link for proper operation
The actual time required to complete the replacement can vary depending on the vehicle's design, the mechanic's experience, and any additional repairs that may be needed, such as replacing the sway bar itself.
Is it hard to replace sway bar links?
As long as a vehicle doesn't have severe rust and corrosion, replacing a pair of sway bar links is usually a pretty straightforward job. On most vehicles, a professional can complete the task in under an hour.
How long does it take to replace 2 sway bar links?
To replace sway bar links, you don't have to be a master mechanic, and each side will usually take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your skill level and the complexity of your vehicle. Here's a step-by-step guide on what you need to do the job, the process, and tips to help it go well.
Do you need an alignment after replacing swaybar links?
Any drastic difference might be an indicator that something went wrong with the install and should be examined before going on a test drive. Luckily, with a new sway bar link, there is no need for an alignment and the vehicle is ready to drive immediately.
What causes sway bar links to go out?
Exposed to water, road debris, heat and other contaminants, sway bar links can rust, corrode and fail over time.
What causes sway bar links to go bad?
Exposed to water, road debris, heat and other contaminants, sway bar links can rust, corrode and fail over time.
Can you drive with a broken sway bar link?
No, it is not considered safe to drive with a broken sway bar as the van could either rollover or swing out into oncoming traffic or off the road on a curve as the sway bar is what stabilizes the vehicle on curves.
What are symptoms of bad sway bar links?
A metallic clunking or knocking sound when going over bumps or traveling athigher speeds is one of the most common signs of a bad sway bar link. When sway bar links have excessive play, it can lead to these unusual noises.
How much does an alignment cost?
A front-end alignment (or two wheel alignment), which involves only the front two wheels, typically costs anywhere from $50 to $75. While a four wheel alignment costs more, usually $100 to $168. You may find that the answer to “how much is a wheel alignment” is higher for luxury cars.
How long can you drive with bad suspension?
The short answer is no - you should not drive a car with broken suspension. Regardless of whether it's a broken coil spring or a broken shock absorber, you cannot drive a vehicle which has any element of the suspension that is broken.
How much does it cost to replace sway bar links?
around $100 to $150
The total cost of replacing your sway bar links can be around $100 to $150. The average sway bar link price varies between $40 to $80, depending upon the quality, make and model, and material used.
