Why Sway Bar Links Matter for Your Vehicle’s Safety and Comfort

June 12, 2025

Have you ever gone around a corner and felt your car lean too much to one side? That could be a sign that your sway bar links need attention. These small but important parts help keep your car steady and safe when turning or driving on uneven roads.

Black car suspension components near a tire. | Jim Brangham Auto Repair

What Is a Sway Bar Link?

The sway bar, also called a stabilizer bar, connects the left and right sides of your car’s suspension. It helps reduce the body roll (the side-to-side motion) that happens when you turn. The sway bar links connect the sway bar to your suspension.

Without working sway bar links, your car can feel unstable, especially during turns. You might even hear clunking or rattling noises coming from underneath your vehicle.

Why Are Sway Bar Links Important?

Safety: They help your car stay level and stable during turns.
Comfort: They make your ride smoother, especially over bumps.
Tire Wear: A healthy suspension system helps tires wear evenly, saving you money.

Signs You Might Need New Sway Bar Links

Clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps
Poor handling or feeling like your car is swaying too much
Uneven tire wear
A loose or wandering feeling in the steering

Save Money with Early Repairs

Fixing worn sway bar links early can help you avoid more expensive problems later. Damaged links can lead to extra strain on other suspension parts, like shocks or struts. A simple repair now can prevent a bigger bill down the road.

Trust the Suspension Experts in Cathedral City

At Jim Brangham’s Auto Repair, our skilled technicians will inspect your suspension system and replace any worn sway bar links with high-quality parts. We’re proud to be a trusted, family-owned shop providing honest and reliable auto repair for over 30 years.

📍 Located in Cathedral City, CA 📞 Call us at 760-321-7040 to schedule your suspension check today!

< Older Post Newer Post >

Why Your Power Steering Pump Is So Important

October 28, 2025

When your power steering is working right, turning the wheel feels effortless. But if your wheel feels stiff or you hear a whining sound when turning, you may have low fluid or a worn-out pump. Why Low Power Steering Fluid Is Dangerous Driving with low or no power steering fluid can be unsafe. The pump needs that fluid to build pressure and help you steer. Without it, your wheel can become very hard to turn—especially when parking or driving slowly. That can make it harder to control your car in an emergency. Low fluid also causes damage inside the pump, since the fluid keeps it cool and lubricated. If the pump runs dry, it can wear out fast or even stop working completely. What could’ve been a small fix can turn into a much more expensive repair. The Difference with Electronic Power Steering Many newer vehicles use electronic power steering (EPS) instead of hydraulic. EPS uses an electric motor to help turn the wheels. These systems don’t need fluid and are more fuel efficient. Still, it’s important to have them checked now and then to make sure the sensors and motor are working correctly. Keep Your Steering Safe and Smooth No matter what kind of steering system your vehicle has, regular checks are important. If you notice stiff steering, whining noises, or see fluid under your car, don’t ignore it. At Jim Brangham Auto Repair in Cathedral City, CA , our ASE-certified team can inspect your power steering system, top off or replace the fluid if needed, and make sure everything is safe and working properly. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair today at (760) 321-7040 to schedule your power steering inspection and service in Cathedral City, CA. We’ll help keep your car steering smoothly and safely for miles to come.

Why Differential Service Can Save You Money

October 16, 2025

What the Differential Does The differential is what helps your wheels turn smoothly when you go around corners. It lets each wheel move at a slightly different speed, which makes driving easier and safer. If your differential starts to wear out, you might hear grinding or whining sounds, or feel your car handle differently. It’s one of those parts you don’t think about until something goes wrong — and by then, it can get expensive to fix. Why Differential Fluid Service Is Important Inside your differential is fluid that keeps the gears cool and lubricated. Over time, that fluid breaks down from heat, friction, and dust — especially in California’s desert weather. When the fluid gets dirty, it can’t protect the parts anymore. If that happens, it can cause: Rough or noisy driving Gear damage Leaks or vibration Costly repairs down the road That’s why changing your differential fluid on time is so important. It’s a simple and affordable way to keep your car running smoothly. How Often Should You Change It? Most cars need differential service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you tow, haul heavy loads, or drive in hot weather often, you might need it sooner. The good news? It’s quick, easy, and saves you a lot of money compared to replacing the whole differential. How It Saves You Money Fresh differential fluid reduces wear and helps prevent breakdowns. A full differential replacement can cost thousands, while a fluid service is just a small routine maintenance. Taking care of it early keeps your car safe and reliable — and helps your budget in the long run. Trust Jim Brangham Auto Repair At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, our ASE-certified team knows how to keep your car in top shape. We offer differential service, A/C repair, smog inspections, and more to help your vehicle last longer and run better. If your car feels different while turning, or it’s been a while since your last service, come see us today. We’ll make sure your differential — and the rest of your car — gets the care it deserves. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair at (760)321-7040 in Cathedral City today for honest, expert car care you can trust!