Sway Bars

Does your car roll heavily in corners, or do you want to shift the balance between understeer and oversteer? Sway bars limit body roll and let you fine-tune how the front and rear axles work. They are for you if you want a more precise car on country roads or at track days.

What a sway bar does

A sway bar connects the suspension on the left and right sides and counteracts body roll when the car is loaded in corners. A stiffer rear bar can typically reduce understeer, while a stiffer front bar often increases it. The exact effect depends on the car, the tyres and the rest of the suspension. The bars work together with springs and shock absorbers, so it is a good idea to look at the setup as a whole.

How to choose sway bars

Look at more factors than just the largest diameter:

• Diameter and design: Stiffness depends on both thickness and design. For example, Cobb rear bars for the Subaru WRX/STI are available in both 22 and 24 mm.
• Adjustment: Adjustable bars have several mounting points, so you can change the stiffness and adapt the balance as your project progresses.
• Front, rear or kit: Some products are sold as kits for both axles, e.g. aFe kits for the Toyota Supra and Chevrolet Corvette.
• Use: A very stiff bar can result in less grip and a more unsettled car on uneven roads. So weigh the stiffness against where the car will be driven.

In this category you will also find brands such as H&R, Hellwig, Superpro, Whiteline and Eibach.

Installation and maintenance

Fitment depends on the specific part number and the car's model year, so always check the model specification. The bar is connected to the suspension via sway bar end links. After lowering, adjustable end links may be necessary so the bar is not preloaded. Check bushings and links for play at regular intervals.

Frequently asked questions

Should I replace the front or rear sway bar first?

It depends on what you want to change. A stiffer rear bar can typically reduce understeer, while a stiffer front bar often increases it. The right solution depends on the car, the tyres and the rest of the suspension.

Does a new sway bar require an inspection or approval?

It depends on the product and the car. Check the manufacturer's documentation for the specific part number, and feel free to ask your inspection centre before installation if you are unsure about the rules for your car.

Why does it clunk after installing a new sway bar?

The noise can be caused by loose bolts, dry or incorrectly fitted bushings, or end links hitting other parts. Check tightening torques and clearance, and make sure the links are not preloaded, especially after lowering.