How much should a sway bar link replacement cost?

On average, replacing a sway bar end link costs about $100 to $250 per link, including parts and labor. If you need both sides, plan for roughly $200 to $500. Prices vary by vehicle, location, and shop. Dealer service is usually at the higher end, while independent shops can be cheaper, and DIY parts are an option if you're comfortable with basic suspension work.

Cost components for sway bar link replacement

Understanding the pricing requires looking at parts, labor, and any add-ons that could affect the total. The following list breaks down typical costs you may encounter.

• Parts cost: Typical end links cost $15–$60 per link for aftermarket options; OEM or premium versions can run $40–$100 per link.


• Labor cost: Most shops bill 0.5–1 hour per link. At common shop rates of roughly $75–$125 per hour, labor per link is about $38–$125.


• Total per link: Roughly $50–$185, depending on parts quality and labor rate.


• Two links (both sides on the same axle): Generally double the per-link total, with common ranges of about $100–$370 for the pair, depending on vehicle and shop.


• Optional add-ons: Some replacements include new hardware, bushings, or brackets; these extras can add $5–$25 or more, depending on what's required.

Conclusion: Most customers pay between $100 and $370 for a single linked replacement and about $200 to $740 for replacing both sides, though dealer service can push higher.

Factors that influence the price

Pricing isn’t uniform. Several factors can push costs up or down. The following considerations often determine the final bill.

• Vehicle type and design: Some cars use more complex links, require special hardware, or need additional parts, increasing the price.


• Part choice: Aftermarket parts are cheaper than OEM or premium/heavy-duty links; some vehicles benefit from higher-quality units that last longer.


• Shop type and region: Independent shops in smaller towns tend to be cheaper; dealer service or urban shops in big cities are usually pricier.


• Labor rates and time: Regions with higher labor costs or longer service times raise the bill; some cars take longer to access the links.


• Whether both sides are done at once: Replacing both ends on the same axle generally costs more upfront but can be more cost-effective than separate visits.


• Additional suspension work or inspections: If bushings or mounts are seized or damaged, or if an alignment check is recommended, costs rise accordingly.

Conclusion: If you’re shopping around, you’ll likely pay more at a dealership or in a major metro area and less at an independent shop in a smaller market. Always ask what is included in the price and whether alignment checks are needed.

Ways to save on sway bar link replacement

Smart budgeting often comes from small, practical steps. Consider these options to reduce costs without compromising safety.

• Shop around and obtain multiple quotes to compare parts and labor prices.


• Ask for a clear breakdown of parts vs. labor and whether the quote covers hardware and disposal fees.


• Consider aftermarket parts if they meet your vehicle’s specifications and come with a solid warranty.


• Check whether the shop will install customer-supplied parts; this can lower material costs, though it may affect warranty terms.


• Inquire about per-axle pricing or bundled discounts if you’re replacing more than one component on the same side.


• If you have the skills and tools, a DIY replacement can save the majority of the cost, but proceed only if you’re confident in suspension work.


• Look for shops that include a free suspension inspection or alignment check after the repair.


• Choose parts with a warranty on both parts and labor to protect your investment over time.

Conclusion: A little preparation goes a long way. By comparing quotes, choosing appropriate parts, and leveraging any bundled services or warranties, you can secure a fair price for a straightforward sway bar link replacement.

Summary

In practice, sway bar link replacement costs typically fall in the $100–$250 range per link for parts and labor, with higher prices in dealerships or for complex vehicles. Replacing both sides commonly ranges from roughly $200–$500, though premium shops in urban areas may charge more. Always obtain multiple quotes, verify what’s included, and weigh part quality and warranty when deciding. With careful planning, you can budget effectively and avoid overpaying for a routine suspension fix.

Can you drive on a bad sway bar link?

You can technically drive with a broken sway bar link, but it is not recommended as it compromises your car's handling and safety. It will cause increased body roll, poor stability, and delayed steering response, especially when cornering. You should drive slowly, avoid sharp turns or sudden maneuvers, and get the part replaced as soon as possible.
 
You can watch this video to see how a broken sway bar link can affect a car's stability when turning: 54sMotor MaintenanceYouTube · Apr 6, 2017
Risks of driving with a broken sway bar link

• Reduced stability: The car will lean more in turns, making it feel less stable. 
• Poor handling: You will notice a vague or delayed steering response, making it harder to control the vehicle, especially during emergency maneuvers. 
• Increased wear: It can lead to uneven tire wear over time. 
• Potential for further damage: A broken link could potentially cause other damage, such as by coming loose and hitting other components, such as the wheel or axle. 

How to drive safely until you can get it fixed

• Drive slowly: Keep your speed down, especially when turning. 
• Avoid hard maneuvers: Do not take corners aggressively and avoid sudden lane changes or braking. 
• Drive cautiously: Be prepared for the car to handle differently than usual. 
• Get it fixed quickly: The part is a critical safety component, and driving with a broken one should only be a temporary solution. 

How much does labor cost to replace sway bar links?

The labor cost to replace sway bar links is typically between $50 and $120, but this can vary based on vehicle make and model, labor rates in your location, and the complexity of the repair. For common vehicles, the total repair cost is often between $150 and $250, with the labor making up a significant portion of the final price. 
Factors that influence labor costs

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or high-performance vehicles may have higher labor costs due to more complex designs and specialized labor requirements. 
• Location: Labor rates are generally higher in major metropolitan areas compared to rural areas. 
• Complexity of the job: The time it takes to complete the repair can vary, with some vehicles requiring extra steps to access the sway bar links, which increases labor costs. 
• Mechanic choice: Dealerships and independent shops may have different labor rates. 

What you can expect

• Average labor: The average labor cost is often in the $50-$120 range, though some sources provide a broader average for the total job that includes labor. 
• Total cost: The total cost for parts and labor is typically between $150 and $250, but this can be higher or lower depending on the factors listed above. 
• DIY savings: Replacing sway bar links is a task that can be done by a mechanically inclined person with the right tools, which could significantly reduce the total cost by saving on labor fees. 

Is it worth replacing sway bar links?

Replacing just one sway bar link is technically acceptable and frequently done to address an immediate failure. For balance, longevity, and value it is generally better to replace both links on the same axle unless the other link clearly shows substantial remaining life.

How long does it take to fix sway bar links?

Fixing sway bar links typically takes under an hour for a professional or an experienced DIYer, with estimates ranging from 30 minutes to an hour for both front links, assuming no severe rust or corrosion. However, the time can vary depending on the vehicle's condition, your skill level, and whether other parts, like sway bar bushings, are also being replaced. 

• For professionals: A professional mechanic can often replace a pair of sway bar links in under an hour. 
• For DIYers: The job can take 30 minutes to an hour per side, depending on your experience. Some people with little experience have completed the job in about an hour for both links. 
• Factors that can increase time:
  • Rust and corrosion: This can make the job significantly more difficult and time-consuming. 
  • Additional parts: Replacing sway bar bushings will add about another half-hour to the job. 
  • Vehicle-specific issues: Some vehicles have parts like the fuel tank that make the job more complex. 
  • Stripped bolts: If bolts are stripped, it can take much longer to remove them.