ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairSuspension and SteeringMedium
A vehicle with a solid rear axle experiences excessive body roll during cornering. All suspension components appear to be in good condition. What is the MOST likely contributing factor to this condition?
- AIncorrect tire pressure.
- BA faulty power steering pump.
- CLoose lug nuts.
- DWorn stabilizer bar bushings.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Worn stabilizer bar bushings.
Excessive body roll is a primary symptom of a compromised stabilizer bar (sway bar) system. Even if the bar itself isn't broken, worn bushings allow the bar to move excessively without effectively transferring load, leading to increased body roll.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect tire pressure primarily affects ride harshness and tire wear, not typically excessive body roll.
- B. A faulty power steering pump would affect steering effort, not body roll during cornering.
- C. Loose lug nuts would cause wheel wobble and noise, not specifically excessive body roll.
Stabilizer Bar Function
The stabilizer bar (sway bar) reduces body roll during cornering by transferring suspension load from the heavily loaded side to the lightly loaded side.
- Connects the left and right suspension components.
- Worn bushings or links compromise its effectiveness.
- A properly functioning stabilizer bar improves handling and stability.
Memory trick: Roll and sway, bushings give way.