2008 Ford Taurus X - Sway/Stabilizer Bar Link

What Are Sway Bar Links?

A sway bar link, or stabilizer bar link, is a crucial suspension component that connects the sway bar to the vehicle's suspension system. The sway or stabilizer bar keeps the two sides of your suspension tethered to help prevent the sway you might experience in the body of your vehicle when turning. This helps to maintain stability and improve handling, particularly during turns and sharp maneuvers.

Your sway bar links connect the sway bar to the control arm, and help keep the vehicle more balanced and stable when turning or cornering. The sway or stabilizer bar links usually consist of a straight rod with bushings and retaining washers that are installed around the sway bar and control arm, or a Z-shaped bar with studs, ball and socket joints, or bushings on both ends. The type and design of your vehicle's sway bar link depends on the design of the suspension, and they should always be replaced if they are severely corroded, if the bushings have worn out, or if they have become loose or suffered damage.

Signs of a Damaged Sway Bar Link

Sway bar links are typically made from metal or high-strength steel, and consist of a rod or shaft with ball joints or bushings at each end to allow for movement and flexibility. Over time, the bushings or ball joints may wear out, causing noise, reduced performance, or uneven handling. If your stabilizer bar link fails or becomes loose, it may cause a clunking noise from the vehicle, your handling may seem to have more play, or your vehicle may rock or lean more when turning or going around corners. This can be dangerous, especially in vehicles with a higher rollover risk like trucks and SUVs.

If you notice that your vehicle seems to be less balanced when turning, it is a good idea to inspect the sway bar links and the rest of the suspension system for loose or damaged components. Replacing a faulty sway bar link is essential for maintaining proper suspension function and overall vehicle control. If you need to replace your sway bar links, check out our video on how to replace a sway bar link and shop our complete selection of stabilizer bar links and other suspension repair components at O'Reilly Auto Parts. We also carry complete sway bar kits and replacement stabilizer bar bushings for a complete repair that can help keep you driving safely. If you need more guidance, check out our video on how to replace sway bar links on most vehicles.