Description
Stabiliser Bar Bushings Replacement
What are stabiliser bar bushings and how do they work?
Stabiliser bar bushings are rubber bushings designed to isolate the steel stabiliser bar from the vehicle frame and suspension. The stabiliser bar itself is typically connected to the lower control arms or another suspension component. Through a twisting action, the bar counteracts vehicle lean as you turn around a corner. Cars may be equipped with just a front stabiliser bar or both front and rear stabiliser bars.
When to consider replacing stabiliser bar bushings:
- Knocking, clunking, grinding or squeaking noises. If a bushing has failed, the type of noise you hear depends on the location and extent of the failure. Complete loss of the bushing will cause metal-to-metal contact; you might hear clunking or grinding. If the bushing has dried out and is hard, you might hear squeaking.
- Visible physical damage. On visual inspection, the bushings may be cut, abraded, dislodged, loose, or even missing.
How do mechanics replace stabiliser bar bushings?
- Raise and support the vehicle using steel safety stands
- Remove tire and wheel assemblies on both ends of the axle.
- Detach stabiliser bar bushing clamp, or stabiliser bar link, depending on the location of the bushing to be replaced. Often, if the stabiliser bushing to the vehicle frame mount is being replaced, the stabiliser bar must be completely detached at all links for there to be enough space to install the new frame bushings.
- Once all bushings and required hardware are replaced, the bushing mounts are tightened with a load on the suspension. If required by the service manual, this step ensures the bushings will be in an unloaded condition and not pinched when the vehicle is sitting at normal ride height.
- The vehicle is lowered and road tested to ensure normal cornering; meaning the body leans within acceptable limits and without noise.
Is it safe to drive with a stabiliser bar bushings problem?
Yes. Although not a severe threat, aside from the likely presence of noise, operation at highway speeds when performing sudden manoeuvres can be affected — especially if the vehicle is carrying a heavy load. Seek repair at your earliest convenience.
When replacing stabiliser bar bushings keep in mind:
- The mechanic will inspect the stabiliser bar itself for corrosion, cracks and accident damage.
- Bushings are sold in pairs because it is recommended they be replaced in pairs.
- Always have all bushings inspected, including the bushings in the stabiliser bar links, even if the frame mount bushings are replaced.
- Removal and re-attachment of the stabiliser bar and the bushings’ replacement usually do not affect wheel alignment.
