Parts for your 2014 Subaru Impreza-Sway bars & links

2014 Subaru Impreza sway-bars-&-links: what they do and when to replace them

Based on factory documentation and parts catalogues for the GP/GJ-series (2012–2016) Impreza, the 2014 Subaru Impreza is fitted with front and rear stabiliser (sway) bars and matching end links. Subaru’s workshop manual suspension section lists “Front Stabilizer” and “Rear Stabilizer” components, and the Subaru genuine parts catalogue shows the bar, D-bushes, brackets and stabiliser links at both ends. So, sway-bars-&-links are absolutely relevant on this model—across hatch and sedan variants.

The sway bar ties the left and right suspension together to trim body roll in corners, keeping the Impreza flatter and more predictable. The links are the short arms with ball-jointed ends that connect the bar to the struts or control arms. D-shaped bushes clamp the bar to the subframe. When everything’s healthy, turn-in feels crisp and mid-corner balance is tidy, when parts wear, the car can feel a bit loose and clunky over bumps.

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to inspect the Impreza’s sway-bars-&-links each service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for perished D-bushes, split dust boots on the links, play in the ball joints, or rust where the bar rides in the bushes. Light surface rust is common, excessive movement or torn boots isn’t. Polyurethane bushes can sharpen response but may need periodic greasing—rubber bushes don’t get lubricated. In wet, coastal or gravel-road use, links often need replacement somewhere between 60,000 and 120,000 km.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech. Replace links in pairs per axle, use the correct hex/torx counter-hold on link studs so they’re not twisted, and torque fasteners at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload. If the bar’s D-bushes are cracked or the bar has polished flats, budget to swap the bushes too. An alignment isn’t usually required for sway bar or link work on the Impreza, provided no other suspension arms are disturbed. OEM-equivalent links and bushes deliver factory ride and quietness, uprated bars are an option if sharper handling is desired, but they can increase bump-thump and NVH. Worn links can trigger a Warrant of Fitness or roadworthy fail, so getting on top of knocks and clunks early is worth it.

• Common signs to watch: sharp clunks on small bumps, squeaks from the bar mounts, vague initial turn-in, or visible play in a link when the suspension is unloaded.

Popular questions about 2014 Subaru Impreza sway-bars-&-links

Does the 2014 Impreza have both front and rear sway bars?
Yes. The GP/GJ 2014 Impreza uses a front stabiliser bar with links to the struts, and a rear stabiliser bar with links to the rear suspension. This layout is shown in Subaru’s chassis/suspension workshop manual and genuine parts listings.

How can someone tell if their sway bar links are worn on a 2014 Impreza?
Listen for metallic tapping or clunks over potholes or driveway entries, and check for split rubber boots or free play at the ball joints. With the car safely lifted and the wheel supported, any noticeable looseness at the link ends usually means it’s time to replace.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing sway bar links or bushes?
Generally, no. The sway bar and links don’t set alignment angles. If only the links or D-bushes are changed, alignment should remain unchanged. If other suspension components were loosened or replaced, book an alignment afterwards.