The stabilizer link, also commonly referred to as the sway bar link or anti-roll bar link, plays a crucial role in the suspension system. It connects the sway bar to suspension components such as the knuckle, control arm, or strut.
The primary function of the stabilizer link is to reduce body roll during cornering or when driving over uneven terrain. It helps stabilize the wheels during extreme articulation events and ensures smoother operation in terms of ride comfort and handling. Additionally, it is designed to assist in distributing forces across the suspension system, particularly in off-road or rugged terrain applications.
This case study presents the failure of a stabilizer link assembly during extreme articulation events. The front stabilizer link failed during vehicle-level durability and functional testing across multiple terrains.
Based on the root cause analysis, design strategies were developed to prevent such failures and to ensure reliable operation during demanding off-road and extreme articulation conditions. These strategies aim to develop a robust stabilizer link assembly that maintains the kinematic performance of passenger vehicles during extreme articulation events.