Sway Bar Repair & Replacement Cost Guide
Sway Bar Link Replacement
Labor Time: 0.5-1 hour
Labor Cost: $62.50-$125
Parts Cost: $20-$50 per link
Total Estimated Cost: $82.50-$175 per side
Sway Bar Bushing Replacement
Labor Time: 1-1.5 hours
Labor Cost: $125-$187.50
Parts Cost: $15-$40 per pair
Total Estimated Cost: $140-$227.50
Complete Sway Bar Replacement
Labor Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Labor Cost: $187.50-$312.50
Parts Cost: $75-$250
Total Estimated Cost: $262.50-$562.50
Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make and model. Some luxury or performance vehicles may require specialty parts that could increase costs. All estimates are based on our shop rate of $125/hour.
Additional Considerations:
- Four-wheel drive and some SUV models may require additional labor time
- Rust or seized components may increase labor time
- Aftermarket performance parts typically cost more than OEM components
- We recommend inspecting both sides even if only one side shows symptoms
Replacement Procedures
When dealing with the replacement or repair of a sway bar (also known as an anti-roll bar or stabilizer bar) in a vehicle, several components and steps are typically involved. Here's what we include in our service:1. Sway Bar:The main component itself, which is a metal bar that connects the left and right suspension systems to reduce body roll during cornering.
2. Sway Bar Bushings:These are rubber or polyurethane components that cushion the sway bar and reduce noise and vibration. We replace these along with the sway bar if they show signs of wear or damage.
3. Sway Bar Links:These are the connectors that attach the sway bar to the suspension components. They can be straight or have a ball joint, and we replace them if they are worn or damaged.
4. Mounting Brackets:These brackets hold the sway bar in place and we check them for damage or corrosion. We replace them if they are compromised.
5. Professional Installation:Our skilled technicians will remove the old sway bar and components and install the new ones. This includes lifting the vehicle, removing the wheels, and accessing the sway bar assembly.
6. Alignment Check:We perform an alignment check after replacing suspension components to ensure your vehicle's handling is optimal.
7. Comprehensive Inspection:During the repair or replacement process, our mechanics thoroughly inspect related suspension components, such as control arms, shocks, and struts, to ensure they are in good condition.
8. Test Drive:After the replacement or repair, we conduct a test drive to ensure that the sway bar is functioning correctly and that your vehicle's handling has been properly restored.
These components and steps ensure that your sway bar system is properly repaired or replaced, maintaining your vehicle's stability and handling characteristics.
What is a Sway Bar and what does it do
A sway bar, also known as an anti-roll bar or stabilizer bar, is a component of a vehicle's suspension system. Its primary function is to reduce body roll during cornering or when driving over uneven surfaces. The sway bar is typically a metal rod that connects the left and right wheels of an axle, either at the front or rear of the vehicle, or both.When a vehicle goes around a corner, centrifugal force causes the body to lean away from the direction of the turn. This leaning can lead to a loss of traction and stability. The sway bar helps counteract this by transferring some of the force from one side of the suspension to the other. It does this by twisting along its axis, which resists the roll of the vehicle's body.The sway bar is connected to the suspension components via links and bushings, which allow it to move and flex as needed. By providing resistance to body roll, the sway bar helps maintain better contact between the tires and the road, improving handling and stability. It's an essential part of the suspension system, especially in vehicles designed for performance or those that frequently carry heavy loads.
How do I know I need to replace my Sway Bar
Sway Bar (Anti-Roll Bar) Maintenance Guide
Signs of Sway Bar Failure
Unusual Noises:
- Clunking or knocking sounds when driving over bumps
- Squeaking or creaking during turning maneuvers
- Rattling noises from under the vehicle
Handling Issues:
- Excessive body roll during cornering
- Vehicle feels unstable during lane changes
- Uneven tire wear
- Poor steering response
Visual Indicators:
- Cracked or broken sway bar bushings
- Visible rust or corrosion on the bar
- Bent or damaged sway bar links
- Loose mounting brackets
Typical Service Schedule
Regular Inspection:
- Every 50,000 miles or during routine maintenance
- Visual inspection during tire rotations (every 5,000-7,000 miles)
- Check bushings and links during annual vehicle inspection
Replacement Schedule:
- Sway bar bushings: Every 80,000-100,000 miles
- Sway bar links: Every 60,000-80,000 miles
- Complete sway bar: Only when damaged or severely corroded
Preventative Maintenance:
- Lubricate bushings during routine service
- Clean and inspect mounting points annually
- Check for proper torque on all mounting hardware
Note: Service intervals may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle make/model, and manufacturer recommendations. Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
