If your ride feels unstable in the curves, failing sway bar bushings might be steering you off course.
Wondering what a sway bar bushing replacement costs?
We’ll break down the costs and warning signs so you can tackle the issue before it gets worse. We’ll also explore the ideal time for replacement and a few tips to keep the bushings in good condition.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Sway Bar Bushing Replacement Cost?
- Is it Safe to Drive with Faulty Sway Bar Bushings?
- 5 Signs You Need a Faulty Sway Bar Bushing
- How Long Do Sway Bar Bushings Last?
- Can You Replace a Sway Bar Bushing Yourself?
- How to Maintain the Sway Bar Bushing
How Much Does a Sway Bar Bushing Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you need to spend to swap out the bad sway bar bushing:
A. Range
An average sway bar replacement costs around $200 to $280.
This includes:
- Part: $40 and $50
- Labor: $155 and $230
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Here are a few factors that impact your total replacement cost:
- Vehicle type: Luxury cars and performance models often have complex suspension systems that require more labor and specialized tools, driving up costs. Similarly, trucks and SUVs can also be pricier due to larger parts and tougher access. In contrast, common sedans and compact cars, like the Toyota Corolla, usually allow for quicker, more affordable replacements.
- Material of the sway bar bushing: Rubber bushings, commonly used in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) setups, are usually more affordable. On the other hand, polyurethane bushings cost more but offer better durability and handling.
- Type of sway bar bushing: Split bushings are the most commonly used due to their easy installation and lower labor costs. Meanwhile, greaseable bushings, found in performance setups, are the most expensive, as they offer added durability and noise reduction.
- Labor costs: Labor charges may be less in rural areas than in urban areas. Additionally, front stabilizer bar bushings are usually more accessible than rear sway bar bushings, which may require removing exhaust components or dropping the subframe. This may drive up the cost.
- Parts quality: OEM bushings are often more expensive but ensure a precise fit. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts may be more affordable but vary in quality.
- Additional repairs: Stabilizer bar bushing replacements often reveal related repairs of other worn components, such as brackets, mounting hardware, or a sway bar link, that need replacement, adding to the overall cost. Additionally, if the bushings are part of a broader suspension service, the shop may recommend a wheel alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear. This may add another $50 to $200 to your final bill.
NOTE: Car insurance may cover repair costs if the damage results from an accident or another covered event — not regular wear and tear.
Is it Safe to Drive with Faulty Sway Bar Bushings?
No, it’s not safe to drive with worn bushings.
You’ll feel more body roll during turns, especially at higher speeds, making the car feel unstable and harder to control. Over time, this can stress out other suspension components like the sway bar link or even the tires, leading to uneven wear and more expensive repairs.
Worse, in critical situations, like swerving to avoid an obstacle or taking a sharp curve, the lack of proper stabilization could cause you to lose control, increasing the risk of an accident.
5 Signs You Have a Faulty Sway Bar Bushing
If you notice these signs, take your vehicle to the mechanic ASAP:
- Unusual noises, like squeaking, knocking, and clunking sounds, especially from the suspension area near the wheels when turning or going over bumps.
- Poor vehicle response due to compromised suspension stability
- Excessive body roll
- Less responsive steering wheel
- Cracks and tears in the stabilizer bar bushing
How Long Do Sway Bar Bushings Last?
A sway bar bushing can last around 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, stabilizer bar bushings can fail sooner due to:
- Wear and tear
- Poor road conditions
- Aggressive driving
- Exposure to engine fluids like oil or fuel
- Environmental factors like moisture, road salt, rust, and corrosion
Can You Replace a Sway Bar Bushing Yourself?
Replacing a stabilizer bar bushing yourself can lead to problems like uneven handling or even sway bar damage if the bushing isn’t aligned or torqued correctly. Without the right tools or experience, you might also miss related issues like worn sway bar links or brackets when you attempt a DIY repair.
For proper fit, function, and safety, it’s best to leave this job to a qualified mechanic or an auto shop.
Here’s how they’ll replace a bad sway bar bushing:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and safely lift it with jack stands.
- Locate the sway bar and the bushings mounted to the vehicle’s frame or subframe. The sway bar is located in the front or rear suspension, connecting the left and right wheels.
- Unbolt the brackets holding the bushings in place.
- Remove the old bushings from the sway bar.
- Install the new bushings in the same position and align them properly.
- Reattach and tighten the brackets to the correct torque spec.
- Lower the vehicle and test drive to ensure proper handling.
How to Maintain the Sway Bar Bushing
Follow these steps to keep your stabilizer bar bushing in top shape:
- Follow regular maintenance schedules.
- Avoid aggressive driving and sudden maneuvers that strain the suspension.
- Rinse the undercarriage occasionally, especially after off-road or winter driving, as dirt and debris can accelerate wear.
- Some aftermarket bushings require periodic lubrication, so follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Check your wheel alignment, as misalignment can put uneven pressure on bushings and shorten their lifespan.
Get Hassle-Free Sway Bar Bushings Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
Worn bushings can seriously affect your car’s handling, stability, and safety, especially during turns or emergency maneuvers. Replacing them promptly not only restores comfort and control but also prevents further wear on suspension components.
Stuck at home?
No worries, AutoNation Mobile Service can bring the shop to you.
We offer mobile auto repair and maintenance services, like brake pad or starter motor replacement, every day of the week. These repairs are also backed by a 12-month, 12,000-mile auto repair warranty.
Get in touch with us before those bushings go from “sway” to “nay” on every turn.