How to Replace Front Sway Bar Links 05-09 Subaru Outback

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 35 min · Subaru Outback

Replace the front sway bar links on a Subaru Outback, counterholding the studs while tightening the hardware evenly at both ends.

Steps

1. Lift the vehicle and remove the wheel

   Loosen the lug nuts with the vehicle on the ground, raise and support it on stands, then remove the wheel to expose the sway bar link.

2. Remove the old link

   Counterhold each link stud with a wrench while removing its retaining nut. Pull one end free, rotate the link as needed, and remove the other end.

3. Install the replacement link

   Set the new link into both mounting points and hand-start the nuts. Counterhold the studs and tighten the nuts to vehicle specifications.

4. Refit the wheel and check

   Reinstall the wheel and snug the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to specification in a crossing pattern, then check for clunks on a short drive.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.