Stabilizer Bar, Links and Body Bushings
As you go down the road, do you hear a muffled CLUNK, CLUNK, CLUNK-CLUNK, CLUNK as your vehicle passes over small undulations in the roadway? Does the vehicle seem to lean way too much on a curve? Do you take the corners more slowly because it just doesn't feel safe? Then you may have a problem with a stabilizer bar.
Sometimes called an ANTI-SWAY BAR, a stabilizer bar is a springy bar that is goes crosswise on the body. It is attached to by body by metal straps (brackets) which traps rubber sleeves (bushings). The bar runs through the bushings. This allows the bar to pivot, much like a door on a hinge. The ends of the bar are connected to the suspension near each wheel through links. Thus, when the right side suspension is compressed by making a left turn, the bar twists so that the suspension on the opposite side is pulled up in a way that keeps the vehicle more level.
If the bushings or links are worn out, you get that muffled CLUNK-CLUNK noise. If the worn out link breaks in an unexpected hard turn (like a swerve to avoid a ball that suddenly appears in your path) you could loose control and crash. If the bar has broken, the stabilizer bar system just can't work at all.
If you're think you are having problems with the stabilizer bar, bushings or links, bring your vehicle to Clearview Tire & Auto Service for a correct diagnosis and professional guaranteed repairs which includes our Certified Auto Repair Nationwide Warranty. We're in Hopkinsville, not far from Ft. Campbell and we've been here since 1952. Most repairs include one year FREE towing and roadside assistance, good 24/7 coast-to-coast.