2013 Ford Explorer Sway Bar Link Replacement – Restore Stability
Sway bar links are crucial for your 2013 Ford Explorer’s handling and ride comfort, connecting the stabilizer bar to the suspension. Replacing worn links can eliminate annoying clunks and excessive body roll, making your SUV feel new again. This DIY guide covers everything you need for a successful swap, ensuring your Explorer handles like it should.
Does your 2013 Ford Explorer feel a bit sloppy in turns, or worse, make an embarrassing clunking noise every time you hit a bump? These common symptoms often point to worn-out sway bar links, vital components that keep your SUV stable and responsive. Ignoring them can lead to poor handling and accelerated wear on other suspension parts.
Fortunately, a 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement is a manageable DIY task for many home mechanics, saving you significant labor costs. With the right tools and a clear guide, you can restore your Explorer’s ride quality and confidence on the road, whether you’re commuting or heading out for a weekend adventure.
At EngineNeeds, we empower car owners and DIY enthusiasts with the knowledge to tackle common automotive issues. This comprehensive guide will walk you through diagnosing, preparing for, and executing a successful sway bar link replacement on your 2013 Ford Explorer, ensuring you understand every step and potential pitfall.
Understanding Your Explorer’s Suspension: The Role of Sway Bar Links
Before diving into the replacement process, it’s helpful to understand what sway bar links do. Also known as stabilizer bar links or end links, these components connect your vehicle’s sway bar (or anti-roll bar) to the lower control arm or strut assembly.
The primary function of the sway bar is to reduce body roll when your Explorer turns or encounters uneven terrain. When one side of the suspension compresses (like in a turn), the sway bar twists, transferring force to the other side of the suspension to keep the vehicle flatter.
Sway bar links act as the bridge, ensuring this force transfer is smooth and effective. They typically feature ball joints or bushings at each end, allowing for articulation as the suspension moves. Over time, these joints and bushings wear out, leading to play and noise.
Why Worn Sway Bar Links Matter
When the links are worn, they can’t effectively transfer the sway bar’s stabilizing force. This results in:
- Increased Body Roll: Your Explorer might lean more excessively in turns.
- Clunking Noises: The most common symptom, especially over bumps or during low-speed maneuvers, is a distinct clunking or rattling sound from the front or rear suspension.
- Loose Steering Feel: The vehicle may feel less precise or responsive.
- Uneven Tire Wear: While not a direct cause, poor handling can contribute to abnormal tire wear patterns over time.
Addressing these issues promptly not only improves comfort but also maintains your vehicle’s safe handling characteristics. This is particularly important for off-roaders who demand precise control over challenging terrain, or for families who rely on their Explorer for safe travel.
Diagnosing Worn Sway Bar Links on Your 2013 Ford Explorer
Accurate diagnosis is key before you start ordering parts. Don’t assume every clunk is a sway bar link; other components like control arm bushings, tie rod ends, or strut mounts can also cause similar noises. Here’s how to pinpoint worn sway bar links:
Listen for the Sounds
- Low-Speed Clunking: Drive slowly over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven pavement. If you hear a distinct clunk or rattle, especially from the front, it’s a strong indicator.
- Turning Noises: Clunks or pops while turning at low speeds can also point to worn links.
Visual Inspection and Hands-On Check
You’ll need to safely lift your vehicle for a thorough inspection. Always use jack stands and wheel chocks for safety.
- Park on Level Ground: Engage the parking brake.
- Lift the Vehicle: Use a floor jack to lift the front or rear of your Explorer, supporting it securely with jack stands. Ensure the wheels are off the ground and the suspension is hanging freely.
- Inspect the Links: Locate the sway bar links. They typically connect the sway bar (a thick metal rod running horizontally across the vehicle) to the strut or lower control arm.
- Look for Damage: Check for obvious signs of wear or damage. This includes torn rubber boots around the ball joints, corrosion, bent links, or excessive rust.
- Wiggle Test: Grab each sway bar link firmly and try to move it by hand. You should feel very little to no play. If you can easily wiggle the link, or hear it clunking, the ball joints or bushings are likely worn out.
- Pry Bar Test: For a more definitive test, carefully use a small pry bar to check for movement at the joints. Apply gentle pressure to simulate road forces. Any noticeable play indicates a problem.
Perform this inspection on both sides of the vehicle, as one side may wear out before the other. This diagnostic step is crucial for confirming that a new 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement is indeed what your vehicle needs.
Gathering Your Tools and Parts for the 2013 Ford Explorer Sway Bar Link Replacement
Having the right tools and parts before you start will make the job much smoother and safer. Don’t underestimate the importance of preparation.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
- Safety Gear: Safety glasses and work gloves are non-negotiable.
- Jack and Jack Stands: A sturdy floor jack and at least two robust jack stands are essential for safely lifting and supporting your Explorer.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel nuts.
- Socket Wrench Set: You’ll likely need 15mm, 18mm, and possibly 13mm or 10mm sockets and wrenches for the sway bar link nuts and bolts. A breaker bar can be very helpful for stubborn fasteners.
- Torque Wrench: Absolutely critical for tightening fasteners to factory specifications, preventing over or under-tightening.
- Penetrating Oil: Such as PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench, to help loosen rusted nuts and bolts.
- Wire Brush: To clean threads if necessary.
- Pry Bar or Large Screwdriver: Can be useful for aligning holes or gently prying components.
- Vice Grips or Hex Key: Some aftermarket sway bar links have a hex key fitting in the stud to prevent it from spinning while you loosen the nut.
Choosing the Right Replacement Parts
For your 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement, you have a few options:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): These parts are identical to what came on your Explorer from the factory. They are typically the most expensive but offer guaranteed fit and quality.
- Aftermarket Standard: Many reputable brands (e.g., Moog, TRW, ACDelco, Mevotech) offer direct-fit replacement links. These are usually more affordable than OEM and often meet or exceed original specifications.
- Aftermarket Performance/Heavy Duty: If you frequently tow, carry heavy loads, or engage in light off-roading, consider heavy-duty or greasable aftermarket links. These often feature stronger materials or serviceable ball joints for extended life.
When purchasing, ensure you get links specifically designed for the front or rear (depending on which you’re replacing) of a 2013 Ford Explorer. It’s generally recommended to replace sway bar links in pairs (both left and right) to maintain balanced suspension performance.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your Explorer’s Front Sway Bar Links
This guide focuses on the front sway bar links, which are more commonly replaced. The rear links follow a similar procedure. Always prioritize safety!
Preparation and Safety First
- Park and Secure: Park your 2013 Ford Explorer on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Loosen Lug Nuts: Use your lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel(s) you’ll be removing. Do not remove them completely yet.
- Lift and Support: Place your floor jack under a strong frame point near the wheel you’re working on. Lift the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground. Immediately place a jack stand under a secure frame point and slowly lower the vehicle onto the stand. Repeat for the other side if replacing both links at once.
- Remove Wheels: Finish removing the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel. Set it aside.
Removing the Old Sway Bar Link
- Locate the Link: Identify the sway bar link connecting the sway bar to the strut or lower control arm.
- Apply Penetrating Oil: Generously spray both the upper and lower nuts and bolts of the sway bar link with penetrating oil. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to help loosen any rust.
- Loosen the Nuts:
- Using your socket wrench (likely 18mm or 15mm), attempt to loosen the nuts.
- If the stud spins with the nut, you’ll need to counter-hold it. Some links have a hex key (Allen) fitting in the end of the stud, which you can hold with an Allen wrench while turning the nut with an open-ended wrench. Others might require vice grips clamped carefully to the stud (if you’re not reusing the link).
- A breaker bar can provide extra leverage for stubborn nuts.
- Remove the Link: Once both nuts are off, you may need to wiggle or gently pry the link to free it from its mounting points. Note its orientation for reference when installing the new one.
Installing the New Sway Bar Link
This is where your 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement truly comes to life.
- Position the New Link: Place the new sway bar link into position. It may be helpful to use a pry bar to slightly adjust the sway bar or strut to align the holes.
- Insert Bolts: Insert the new bolts through the mounting holes.
- Install Nuts: Thread the new nuts onto the bolts. Hand-tighten them first to ensure proper threading.
- Torque to Specification: This is a critical step. Refer to your Explorer’s service manual or an online resource for the specific torque specifications for your sway bar link nuts. Typically, front sway bar link nuts are tightened to around 80-90 ft-lbs (108-122 Nm). Use your torque wrench to tighten both the upper and lower nuts to the correct specification. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the new links.
- Repeat for Other Side: If you’re replacing both links, repeat the removal and installation steps for the other side of your Explorer.
Final Steps
- Reinstall Wheels: Place the wheel back on the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower Vehicle: Carefully raise the vehicle with the jack, remove the jack stand, and slowly lower the Explorer to the ground.
- Final Torque Lug Nuts: With the vehicle on the ground, use your torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque (typically 100-150 ft-lbs for a 2013 Explorer). Tighten in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
- Remove Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.
Addressing Common Challenges During Sway Bar Link Replacement
Even with careful planning, DIY projects can present unexpected hurdles. Here are a few common issues you might encounter during a 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement and how to overcome them.
Seized or Rusted Nuts and Bolts
This is arguably the most common challenge, especially in regions with harsh winters or road salt.
- Patience and Penetrating Oil: Apply penetrating oil liberally and let it soak for an extended period – even overnight if possible. Reapply as needed.
- Heat: A propane torch can be used carefully to heat the nut (not the stud or surrounding rubber components). Heat causes the metal to expand, potentially breaking the rust bond. Be extremely cautious with heat near fuel lines, brake lines, or plastic components. Always have a fire extinguisher handy.
- Breaker Bar: Use a long breaker bar for increased leverage.
- Cut It Off: As a last resort, if the nut is completely seized, you may need to cut the nut or the link’s stud using an angle grinder with a cut-off wheel or a reciprocating saw. Always wear eye protection and be mindful of sparks.
Stud Spinning with the Nut
As mentioned earlier, some aftermarket links have a hex key fitting. If yours doesn’t, or if it’s stripped:
- Vice Grips: Carefully clamp vice grips onto the stud between the nut and the rubber boot. This will damage the stud, but since you’re replacing the link, it’s acceptable.
- Impact Wrench: Sometimes, the speed of an impact wrench can spin the nut off before the stud has a chance to fully spin.
Difficulty Aligning New Link
The sway bar might be under tension, making it hard to align the holes for the new link.
- Pry Bar: Use a pry bar to gently manipulate the sway bar or the strut/control arm to line up the holes.
- Lower/Raise Opposite Side: If one side is particularly difficult, you might try lowering the jack slightly on the opposite side of the vehicle, or even putting a little weight on the suspension to change the sway bar’s angle.
Remember, if you encounter a problem that seems beyond your skill level or safe handling, don’t hesitate to call a licensed professional. Your safety and the integrity of your vehicle are paramount.
Post-Replacement Checks and Test Drive Tips
Once your 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement is complete, a few final checks are essential to ensure everything is secure and functioning correctly.
Final Inspection
- Double-Check Torque: Re-verify that all lug nuts and sway bar link nuts are torqued to their specified values.
- Visual Scan: Take one last look at your work. Ensure no tools are left behind, and all components are properly installed.
- Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower your Explorer off the jack stands.
The Test Drive
A short test drive is crucial to confirm the repair and listen for any new or lingering noises.
- Start Slowly: Begin by driving slowly in a quiet area. Listen for any unusual sounds.
- Hit Bumps: Drive over some of the bumps or uneven pavement where you previously heard the clunking. The noise should now be gone.
- Test Turns: Take some turns at varying speeds (within reason) to feel for improved stability and reduced body roll.
- Brake Check: Perform a few gentle stops to ensure braking performance is unaffected.
If you still hear clunking, it might indicate another worn suspension component, or perhaps one of the new links wasn’t tightened correctly. Re-inspect thoroughly if issues persist.
Consider a Wheel Alignment
While replacing sway bar links generally doesn’t directly affect wheel alignment, it’s a good practice to have your alignment checked periodically, especially if you’ve done significant suspension work or if you notice any steering pull or uneven tire wear. If your Explorer has seen some off-road adventures, an alignment check is even more critical to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 Ford Explorer Sway Bar Link Replacement
Are front and rear sway bar links the same on a 2013 Ford Explorer?
No, front and rear sway bar links are typically different in length, design, and mounting. Always ensure you purchase the correct links for the specific axle you are working on. It’s common for the front links to wear out faster due to greater stress.
How long do sway bar links typically last?
The lifespan of sway bar links can vary greatly depending on driving conditions, road quality, and part quality. Generally, they can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Driving frequently on rough roads, hitting potholes, or carrying heavy loads can significantly shorten their life.
Can I drive with a broken sway bar link?
While you can drive with a broken sway bar link, it is not recommended. A broken link severely compromises your Explorer’s stability and handling, especially during turns or emergency maneuvers. It will lead to excessive body roll, a loose feeling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. Get it replaced as soon as possible.
Do I need an alignment after replacing sway bar links?
Typically, replacing only the sway bar links does not directly affect your wheel alignment settings. However, it’s always a good idea to have your alignment checked periodically, especially if you’ve noticed handling issues or uneven tire wear. If you’ve replaced other suspension components like control arms or struts, an alignment is mandatory.
How much does it cost to have a shop replace sway bar links?
Professional replacement costs can vary based on location and shop rates, but typically range from $150 to $400 per axle (including parts and labor). This is why a DIY 2013 ford explorer sway bar link replacement can offer significant savings for the home mechanic.
Replacing the sway bar links on your 2013 Ford Explorer is a rewarding DIY project that significantly improves your vehicle’s handling and eliminates those annoying clunking noises. By following these detailed steps, gathering the right tools, and prioritizing safety, you can confidently tackle this repair and enjoy a smoother, more stable ride.
Remember, regular maintenance and proactive repairs keep your Explorer performing its best, whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the backroads. Stay safe and enjoy the renewed confidence in your ride!
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