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Handling Like a Pro: Upgrading Your Subaru WRX or STI with Sway Bars

April 06, 2023

Subaru WRX and STI owners know that these vehicles offer impressive performance straight from the factory. But if you're looking to take your handling to the next level, upgrading your sway bars can make a big difference. In this post, we'll explore what sway bars are, how they work, and why upgrading them is a smart move.

What are Sway Bars?

Sway bars (also known as stabilizer bars or anti-roll bars) are components of a vehicle's suspension system that help to reduce body roll during cornering. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and connect the left and right sides of the suspension together. This helps to distribute the forces generated during cornering more evenly between the wheels, reducing the tendency for the car to lean to one side.

How Do Sway Bars Work?

During cornering, the forces acting on the vehicle cause it to roll to one side. This is because the weight of the car is shifted to the outside wheels, causing them to compress the suspension on that side. The sway bar helps to counteract this by transferring some of the force to the opposite side of the suspension, reducing body roll and improving handling.

Why Upgrade Your Sway Bars?

Upgrading your sway bars can have a significant impact on your car's handling and overall performance. Here are some of the benefits of upgrading your sway bars:

Reduced Body Roll - Upgraded sway bars are stiffer than stock sway bars, which means they can resist more force and reduce body roll during cornering. This helps to keep the car more stable and predictable during aggressive driving.
Improved Handling - With reduced body roll, your car will handle better, allowing you to take corners with more speed and confidence.
Better Weight Distribution - Upgraded sway bars can help to distribute weight more evenly between the wheels, improving traction and reducing the likelihood of understeer or oversteer.
Customizable - Sway bars are available in a range of sizes and stiffness levels, so you can customize your suspension to suit your driving style and needs.

Which Sway Bars are Best for the Subaru WRX or STI?

There are several options for upgrading your sway bars on a Subaru WRX or STI. Some of the most popular brands include Whiteline, Perrin, and Eibach. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best sway bars for your Subaru:

Stiffness - The stiffness of a sway bar is measured in pounds per inch (lb/in). A stiffer sway bar will provide better handling but may also make the ride harsher.
Size - Sway bars come in different sizes, with larger sway bars providing more stiffness.
Adjustability - Some sway bars are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the stiffness for your specific needs.

Conclusion:

Upgrading your sway bars is a smart move if you're looking to improve the handling and performance of your Subaru WRX or STI. With reduced body roll and improved weight distribution, you'll be able to take corners with more speed and confidence. Consider the factors outlined above when choosing the best sway bars for your needs, and you'll be well on your way to handling like a pro.