How are Torsion Bar issues diagnosed?
To diagnose a bad torsion bar, a technician will note the ride height of the vehicle and check the amount of adjustment available for the torsion bar. The technician will also raise the vehicle and check for signs of damage or corrosion. Any worn or damaged suspension parts related to the torsion rod will also be inspected. If surrounding components are worn, they could place undue stress on the torsion bar or lead to wear on the protective coating that prevents corrosion.
How are Torsion Bars replaced?
After checking the air pressure, the technician will need to connect a diagnostic scan tool to test the wheel sensors first. In some vehicles, the sensors will not set an eOBD-II code directing the technician to the faulty tire pressure sensor, and those must be checked manually. The tires can be inflated and deflated one at a time, and the sensor that does not register the change is faulty, or a wireless scanner can be used to attempt to contact the individual sensors at each wheel.
RepairPal Recommendations for Torsion Bar issues
Some vehicle owners like to raise the ride height by adjusting the torsion bars. Changes in the amount of pretension set in the torsion bars will result in the vehicle body resting at differing heights. This can cause other suspension components (i.e. the shock absorbers) to travel near the ends of their tolerances and cause excessive wear, unwanted noises, or the feeling of a stiffer suspension. Changing the ride height significantly can also alter the suspension alignment. If the ride height is modified, it may be necessary to compensate with replacement components. And a suspension alignment will be necessary.
What to look out for when dealing with Torsion Bar issues
A torsion bar might show little evidence of weakness prior to complete failure. If a torsion bar is going to break, it could happen while a vehicle is traveling at high speeds, and likely as significant force is being applied while cornering. And it will happen suddenly. This can present a dangerous situation on the road. If there are signs of damage or corrosion present on a torsion bar, it should be replaced as soon as possible.