Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Sway bars & links

Sway Bars and Links on the 2016 Subaru Exiga - What You Need to Know

The 2016 Subaru Exiga is a versatile people mover, known for its roomy interior and solid ride quality. When looking at the suspension components on this vehicle, sway bars and their connecting links definitely play a role in how it handles the road. So, what exactly are sway bars and links, and why are they important for the Exiga?

Sway bars, also called anti-roll bars, help to reduce the body roll of a vehicle when cornering. If you've ever felt your car lean excessively while turning, a sway bar is there to limit that movement. On the 2016 Subaru Exiga, these bars connect the suspension on one side of the car to the other, providing a stabilising effect that keeps the vehicle feeling more planted and balanced.

Along with sway bars, you'll often hear about sway bar links. These links are the small but crucial parts that connect the sway bars to the suspension components like the control arms or struts. Think of the sway bar as the main stabiliser beam, and the links as the arms that attach it to the suspension. Without these links, the sway bar cannot do its job properly.

In the case of the 2016 Subaru Exiga, both front and rear sway bars are fitted, along with the appropriate sway bar links. This is pretty typical for cars in its class and size because sway bars help enhance ride stability without compromising ride comfort. They play a vital part in how the Exiga behaves on bends and uneven road surfaces, which is important for family vehicles where safety and a smooth ride are key considerations.

When it comes to maintenance and replacement, sway bars and links should definitely be checked regularly as part of your Subaru Exiga's servicing routine. Although sway bars themselves are quite robust and rarely wear out, the links and their bushings are more vulnerable to wear and tear. Over time, factors like road conditions, moisture, and general use can cause these components to degrade.

Common signs that sway bar links may need attention include:

• Clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps or rough roads
• Increased body roll or unstable handling when cornering
• Visible wear or damage to the rubber bushings or joints in the links

If you notice these symptoms, it's a good idea to get the links inspected by a qualified technician. Replacing worn-out sway bar links is generally straightforward and not too expensive, which makes it a worthwhile fix to keep the Exiga's suspension working as intended.

Aside from noises and handling issues, keeping sway bars and links in good shape contributes to overall vehicle safety. A properly functioning sway bar system helps your vehicle respond predictably during sudden maneuvers, reducing the risk of rollover or loss of control. This is especially important for a larger vehicle like the Exiga that carries multiple passengers.

When replacing sway bar links, genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts are recommended to maintain fit and performance. The replacement process involves removing the old links and bushings and fitting the new ones, usually involving simple tools and a bit of know-how. Many mechanics can perform this service quickly during a routine suspension check.

Regular inspections of sway bars and links during servicing visits will also spot any potential issues early, potentially saving you from more costly repairs down the track. While the sway bars themselves rarely fail, the rubber or polyurethane bushings and the ball joints in the links do experience wear, especially if you tackle rough Australian roads frequently.

In summary, sway bars and links are indeed a part of the 2016 Subaru Exiga's suspension setup. They play an essential role in stabilising the vehicle and maintaining a confident handling feel. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn components ensure that the Exiga continues to provide a safe, comfortable ride for you and your passengers.