Keep in mind: Lateral link replacement costs will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model, and which auto repair shop or dealership you take your car to.

How long does it take to replace a lateral link? A lateral link replacement usually takes about 1.5 hours. Similar to price, time may vary depending on where you have your vehicle serviced.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my lateral link replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Lateral link replacement costs will vary depending on the specific parts you need. For this car repair, you will need the following components:

Lateral link: Despite being a small part, lateral links play a big job in your wheel’s alignment and vehicle’s overall performance. Lateral links are typically metal tubes that have a connection point on each end, and generally cost between $60-$250 depending on your vehicle’s make and model.

You can buy lateral link parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts. Reputable online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto may also be good options. In terms of brands for lateral link parts, we recommend Moog, Dorman, and ACDelco. However, keep in mind that the right parts and brands for your lateral link replacement will vary based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket products?

For a lateral link replacement, either OEM or aftermarket parts are recommended. As the type of lateral link required varies based on the type of vehicle you’re driving, aftermarket is the more budget-conscious option and will hold up if you perform regular maintenance. However, if you’re in search of a lateral link that you know will hold up (in time and warranty) and fit perfectly in your car, you should consider OEM.

Where can I buy parts for my lateral link replacement?

Lateral link replacement parts can be bought at most auto parts stores and auto body shops, including AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts. Alternatively, online sellers, such as Amazon, sell lateral links and lateral link bolt kits for an array of vehicles.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my lateral link replaced?

Discovering a faulty lateral link when you don’t have a mechanic on hand is stressful. Fortunately, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can ease some of the pressure of facing another car repair.

By comparing fair price estimates* from over 2,500 vetted auto body shops across the US, Jerry's GarageGuard™ can provide you with real hourly rates so budgeting is one task taken off your ever-growing to-do list.

Even more, Jerry's GarageGuard™ supplies further information on diagnostic fees (and if they’re included in your service charge) while also providing real reviews from recent and current customers.

Make sure to take a look at some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

161 Reviews

Dunn Tire - Dewitt #21

5830 Bridge St, East Syracuse, NY

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$109.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (315) 446-0043

177 Reviews

54th Street Auto Center

415 W 54th St, New York, NY

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$191

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (212) 265-3120

125 Reviews

Franklin Auto Repair

133 McAleer Rd, Pittsburgh, PA

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$89.95

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (412) 364-2324

118 Reviews

Laurel Heights Automotive

9109 E Gregory Blvd #6407, Independence, MO

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$50

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (816) 353-9518

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my lateral link?

When completing a lateral link replacement, your mechanic will most likely begin with an inspection of your lateral links to identify which need to be replaced. From there, they will raise your vehicle using a jack and set it down on jack stands. Then, they will continue using these steps:

Remove wheels: To access your lateral link, your mechanic will need to remove the tires associated with the damaged parts. First, the lug nuts on your tire will be loosened and removed before taking the tire off.

Separate nuts from lateral arm mounting bolts: Next, the nuts from the mounting bolts are detached.

Remove mounting bolts: On most cars, there are three mounting bolts that hold your lateral links in place—two on the inner mounts and one that secures the lateral link to the spindle. During this step, these are removed so your lateral link can easily slide out.

Remove and install new lateral link: Finally, your old lateral link is removed and replaced with a new one of the same size and design. These factors matter greatly, as installing lateral links that aren’t the correct fit can impact your car’s performance.

Tighten all nuts and hardware: Before reinstalling your tire, your mechanic will tighten all nuts and bolts attached to the lateral link to ensure that it’s secure and in place.

Reinstall tire: Your tire(s) will be reattached and the lug nuts will be tightened. After your car is taken off the jack stands, the lug nuts will be tightened once more using a cross or star pattern for optimal safety.

Alignment: After having your lateral link replaced, your mechanic may suggest an alignment. As your lateral link is part of your suspension system, it’s recommended that you have your vehicle aligned because incorrect alignment can lead to tire wear, affect driveability, and result in an off-centered steering wheel.

Test drive: Lastly, a test drive will be performed to ensure all parts are in working order.

What happens if I don’t replace my lateral link?

If you suspect that your lateral link is failing, you should take it to a mechanic immediately. Refusal to replace a faulty lateral link can not only lead to collisions, but can also result in the following:

Damaged tires/early tire wear

Damaged ball joints

Loose rear end

What is a lateral link?

Lateral links are used in the rear end suspension, and play an important part in keeping your rear wheels aligned by providing support to the rear axle. While most modern cars and SUVs focus on front suspension, the rear is just as important. Without a functioning lateral link, the rear hub assemblies can’t connect to the middle of the car body to keep the rear hubs centered, leading to faulty steering amongst other handling complications.

When should I replace the lateral link on my car?

A faulty lateral link needs to be replaced immediately, as leaving it can result in further damage and an unreliable driving experience. Common symptoms of a malfunctioning lateral link are:

Wobbling sensations/loose steering: Lateral links and bars provide extra weight on the rear tires so they remain secure and stable. However, if a lateral link is failing, this pressure will lessen, leading to a wobbling sensation or loose steering.

Clunking sounds: Sometimes with a faulty lateral link, you can hear clunking noises from the back end of your car. As bushings or support joints attached to the lateral link begin to wear, it creates sound each time you hit a bump or pothole in the road. In more severe cases, the lateral link can fall off and drag on the ground, creating additional noise.

Increased wear on tires: While the rear lateral links provide pressure, they don’t increase the wear and tear on your tires—but a failing one might, due to reduced weight applied to the inner and outer edges of the vehicle.

How often should a lateral link be replaced?

Lateral links are designed to last the lifetime of your vehicle, but rarely meet that quota. Due to increased stress and heat from your car, they can become weak and may need to be replaced every so often. A non-functioning lateral link can affect your entire suspension system, and lead to an increased risk of accident.

Can I replace a lateral link myself?

Yes. A lateral link replacement can be completed at home, if you are comfortable with your DIY skills and knowledge of car parts. Lateral links can be removed and replaced in 7 steps, however, if you are unsure of your ability to complete it, it’s best to visit a licensed mechanic.

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FAQs

Is a lateral link the same as a control arm?

No, a lateral link is not the same as a control arm, but in some vehicles, it does act as a control arm replacement. A lateral link provides added pressure to your rear tires to help align your vehicle, whereas your upper and lower control arms connect to the chassis and ball joint which helps your vehicle to steer in any direction.

Can I drive with a broken lateral link?

Yes, you can drive with a broken lateral link, but it’s highly recommended not to. A broken lateral link will throw off your rear suspension, resulting in unsafe driving conditions and an increased chance of collision.

Sway bar link vs. lateral link?

Lateral links are different from rear sway bar links for many reasons. The lateral link applies pressure to your rear wheels to help enhance performance and keep your vehicle aligned. On the other hand, sway bar links prevent additional leaning on turns.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.