[rf overlord]

In all my years wrenching (37)...

Niece's '98 started making intermittent creaking/clunking sounds from the left front wheel area. Took the wheel off and found the end of the sway bar broken right off. The "eye" was still attached to the end link and when applying the brake and going over the right combination of road surface, you could hear the two pieces rubbing/bumping together.

According to AutoZone's online repair guide, you have to drop the subframe to get the bar out. Anyone ever do this job? Doesn't sound like something I want to try on my back in the driveway.

 

[chevyguy8893]

I have seen that happen a lot on impalas and grand prix's, but never on a malibu. It is always the bar that goes first, even before the link. As for changing it out, you will need to loosen the front cradle bolts and remove the two rear cradle bolts to gain enough access to get the bar out. Be sure to watch the intermediate shaft to be sure it doesn't pull the shaft too far. It could probably be done on the ground, but it wouldn't be fun.