Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Sway bars & links

Sway Bars and Links on the 2017 Holden Commodore: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Holden Commodore, a staple of Aussie roads, comes equipped with a well-engineered suspension system designed to deliver a smooth and stable ride. One important component contributing to this stability is the sway bar, also known as an anti-roll bar, along with its associated links. These parts play a crucial role in controlling body roll and enhancing handling through corners, making driving both safer and more enjoyable.

Sway bars are cleverly designed torsion springs that connect the left and right sides of a vehicle's suspension, typically across the front and sometimes the rear axle. Their main purpose is to reduce the amount of body lean when the car takes a corner. When a Commodore corners, the outside suspension compresses while the inside extends. The sway bar resists this differential movement, distributing weight more evenly across the tyres to increase grip and stability.

The sway bar links are the connectors that attach the sway bar to the suspension components, usually the control arms. These links translate the twisting force from the sway bar into suspension movement, making the entire system work seamlessly. Without these links, the sway bar would be ineffective. They are usually small but vital bushings or ball joints that allow the movement needed while maintaining a strong mechanical connection.

For the 2017 Holden Commodore, sway bars and links are indeed fitted from the factory. This model typically includes both front and rear sway bars, contributing to its well-balanced handling characteristics. These components are designed to handle the rigours of Australian roads, which can range from smooth highways to rougher suburban or rural streets.

From a maintenance perspective, sway bars and links don't require constant attention but are definitely something to keep an eye on, especially once your Commodore covers some serious kilometres. Over time, the sway bar links can wear out, bushings can crack or deteriorate, and bolts may loosen due to vibration and road impacts.

Common signs that your sway bar or its links might need servicing include clunking noises when cornering, excessive body roll, or a noticeable decrease in handling sharpness. If your Commodore starts feeling boaty or unstable on turns, it's worth having the suspension checked, and the sway bar components are a key part of that inspection.

Replacing sway bar links on a 2017 Holden Commodore is a relatively straightforward job for most mechanics. It involves removing the worn links and fitting new ones, which helps restore the suspension's ability to control body roll effectively. Using genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts ensures longevity and continued performance. The sway bar itself is a more robust part and usually doesn't need replacement unless damaged from a crash or severe impact.

Regular servicing of the suspension will often include a quick check of the sway bars and links just to spot any potential issues before they become serious problems. It's a good idea to have your mechanic look at these components every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometres or if you frequently drive on rough or uneven roads. Ensuring the sway bars and links are in good condition guarantees the handling remains crisp, and the ride stays comfortable and safe.

Not taking care of a failing sway bar or worn links can result in poor road holding and could compromise safety, particularly in emergency maneuvers or sharp turns. So, keeping these parts in good order is an easy way to help your 2017 Holden Commodore perform at its best, day after day.

To wrap up the topic, the sway bars and links fitted to the 2017 Holden Commodore are essential components of its suspension system. They help reduce body roll and improve stability, making the car safer and more enjoyable to drive. Regular checks and timely replacement of worn links keep the system functioning properly, ensuring that this iconic Aussie car remains up to standard on all types of roads.