Can a Bad Sway Bar Cause Shaking?
Does a Faulty Sway Bar Lead to Vehicle Shaking?
Yes, a bad sway bar or sway bar links can cause shaking, but it’s usually noticeable during turns, over bumps, or at higher speeds. While the sway bar itself doesn’t directly cause vibration, worn-out sway bar bushings or broken sway bar links can lead to loose suspension movement, resulting in shaking, instability, and excessive body roll.
How a Bad Sway Bar Can Cause Shaking
Symptoms of a Bad Sway Bar Causing Shaking
Steering Wheel Shakes When Turning – Loose sway bar links can cause instability and vibrations. Clunking or Rattling Noises – Especially over bumps or during sharp turns. Excessive Body Roll – Car leans too much in corners. Uneven Tire Wear – Caused by poor suspension stability. Loose Steering Feel – The vehicle may feel unstable at high speeds.
How to Diagnose a Bad Sway Bar Causing Shaking
Inspect Sway Bar Bushings – Look for cracks, looseness, or missing bushings. Check Sway Bar Links – Worn or broken links can cause excessive movement. Listen for Noises – Clunking or rattling when going over bumps is a key sign. Perform a Suspension Shake Test – Push down on the hood or trunk to check for excessive movement.
How to Fix Shaking Caused by a Bad Sway Bar
Replace Worn Sway Bar Bushings – Use OEM or polyurethane replacements for better durability.
Replace Broken or Loose Sway Bar Links – These are a common failure point.
Tighten or Replace Sway Bar Brackets – Ensure the bar is properly secured.
Check for Additional Suspension Issues – Bad control arms, tie rods, or wheel bearings can also cause shaking.
Final Thoughts
Yes, a bad sway bar can contribute to vehicle shaking, especially when turning, hitting bumps, or driving at high speeds. If you notice clunking sounds, loose steering, or excessive body roll, inspect the sway bar bushings and links for wear and replace them as needed.
FAQs
1. Can a broken sway bar make my car shake at highway speeds?
Yes, but usually when turning or changing lanes—a broken sway bar affects stability.
2. Will replacing sway bar bushings improve ride quality?
Yes! New bushings reduce play, leading to better handling and reduced vibrations.
3. Can I drive with a bad sway bar?
Yes, but it’s not safe—the car will have reduced stability, especially in sharp turns.
4. How much does it cost to fix a bad sway bar?
$50–$300, depending on whether you’re replacing bushings, links, or the entire bar.
5. Do I need an alignment after replacing sway bar parts?
No, unless other suspension parts (like control arms or tie rods) were replaced.
