STABILIZER BARS
What: Other front suspension system components include the stabilizer bar and stabilizer links. The stabilizer bar and links join the two lower control arms to transmit cornering forces from the outside wheel to the inside wheel during a turn. This helps equalize wheel loads and prevent the vehicle from leaning or rolling outward when cornering. The stabilizer bar is also called the sway bar.
How: A strut rod is used in some systems to restrict the forward and backward movement of the lower control arm. It is attached between the lower control arm and the frame. Often, both ends of the strut rod are threaded to allow for the caster angle adjustment when performing a wheel alignment.
Stabilizer bars and strut rods do not wear out—they need to be replaced only when damaged or bent. Wear occurs at their connections, at the bushings. When the bushings wear, the connection is loosened. Vehicle handling gets a little sloppy and the wheels cannot remain in proper alignment. It is important to regularly inspect suspension system bushings.