Parts for your 2013 Volkswagen Amarok-Sway bars & links

2013 Volkswagen Amarok sway bars & links

Yes, sway bars and links are relevant to the 2013 Volkswagen Amarok. Volkswagen’s official workshop information (ELSA/ERWIN) and the ETKA parts catalogue for model code 2H list a front stabiliser (sway) bar with drop links and chassis bushes on 2013 Amarok variants. Aftermarket catalogues from well-known suspension brands used in AU/NZ also list direct-fit front sway bar links and bushes for this model. Most local 2013 Amarok trims do not have a factory rear sway bar, relying on the leaf-spring rear for roll control, though some markets or accessories may add one.

The Amarok’s front sway bar and links are there to keep the ute flatter in corners and more predictable when loaded or towing. The bar ties the left and right sides of the suspension together, resisting body roll. The links connect the bar to the control arms, and the chassis-mounted bushes let the bar twist smoothly. It’s a simple setup that pays off in stability on-road and better confidence when dodging potholes or corrugations.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the sway bar links and bushes every 20,000–30,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle sees regular off-road work. Look for torn dust boots, perished rubber, rusty ball studs, and play in the joints. Worn parts usually announce themselves with clunks over speed humps, a vague front end, or extra body roll compared to normal.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work. Best practice is to replace left and right links as a pair, and consider new sway bar D-bushes at the same time. Use quality parts with sealed ball joints, new nyloc nuts, and correct crush sleeves for the bushes. Torque the link fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes, and recheck after the first few hundred kilometres. An alignment typically isn’t required for link or bush replacement, but it’s worth a check if other suspension work was done.

For owners who carry gear or tow often, fresh links and bushes help keep the Amarok tracking straight and reduce steering corrections. Off-roaders might opt for heavy-duty links, just remember that more roll stiffness can reduce independent wheel movement, so choose parts that suit the mix of gravel, bitumen, and load the ute actually sees.

• Common symptoms: front-end clunks, increased body roll, steering looseness
• Service tip: inspect every service, replace in pairs, torque at ride height

Popular questions

Does a 2013 Amarok have rear sway bars from factory?
Most AU/NZ 2013 Amarok models are fitted with a front sway bar only. The rear uses leaf springs and typically doesn’t have a factory rear bar. Some markets or accessories may add a rear sway bar for extra on-road stability.

How long do Amarok sway bar links and bushes last?
On mainly sealed roads, links and bushes can last 60,000–120,000 km. Frequent corrugations, mud, and heavy loads shorten that window. Regular inspections catch cracked boots or play early, before clunks and uneven tyre wear set in.

Can the Amarok be driven with a worn or broken sway bar link?
It’ll usually still drive, but body roll increases and stability suffers, especially in sudden manoeuvres. It’s best to sort worn links promptly to keep the ute safe and predictable, particularly when towing or carrying a canopy and gear.