This procedure addresses the replacement of the panhard bar (track bar) on a 2015 Kia Forte. Note: The 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L does not utilize a panhard bar in its front or rear suspension design, as it uses an independent multi-link rear suspension and MacPherson strut front suspension.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Panhard bar/track bar assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification - verify fitment as this component is not standard on this vehicle

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-specified jacking points
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands under rear subframe or axle beam
6. Remove rear wheels completely
7. Spray penetrating oil on all suspension fasteners and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect for aftermarket panhard bar installation
   Carefully inspect the rear suspension for any aftermarket panhard bar installation. The factory Forte uses a multi-link independent rear suspension with upper and lower control arms, trailing arms, and assist arms, but no panhard bar. If a panhard bar is present, it will typically run laterally from the rear axle beam or subframe to the chassis. Document the mounting locations and orientation before removal.
2. 2

   Support rear suspension
   Place a floor jack under the rear suspension (beneath the trailing arm or lower control arm on the side being serviced) to support the suspension at ride height. This prevents the suspension from dropping excessively when the panhard bar is removed and maintains alignment of mounting points.
3. 3

   Remove chassis-side mounting hardware
   Locate the chassis-side mounting point of the panhard bar. This is typically a bolt or stud with nut passing through a bushing. Using appropriate wrenches, hold the bolt head while removing the nut, or remove the through-bolt completely. Note the orientation of any washers, bushings, or spacers for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove axle-side mounting hardware
   Locate the axle beam or subframe-side mounting point. Remove the mounting bolt or nut while supporting the panhard bar to prevent it from falling. Again, document the position of all washers, bushings, and spacers. The bar may be under slight tension, so control its removal carefully.
5. 5

   Remove panhard bar assembly
   Carefully extract the panhard bar from the vehicle, working it past any brake lines, fuel lines, or other components. Inspect the mounting bushings on both ends for wear, cracking, or deterioration. Check chassis and axle mounting points for damage, elongation, or corrosion.
6. 6

   Prepare new panhard bar
   Unpack the new panhard bar and verify it matches the removed component in length, bushing configuration, and mounting hardware. Pre-install any bushings or hardware that are easier to install before the bar is in position. Apply a light coating of silicone lubricant to bushings if recommended by the manufacturer.
7. 7

   Install new panhard bar
   Position the new panhard bar into the vehicle, aligning it with both mounting points. Install the axle-side mounting hardware first, threading the bolt or stud through the bushing and bracket. Do not fully tighten at this stage. Then install the chassis-side mounting hardware, again leaving it loose for now.
8. 8

   Align and install mounting hardware
   With the rear suspension supported at ride height by the floor jack, ensure the panhard bar is positioned correctly without binding or preload. Install all washers and spacers in their original positions. Thread fasteners hand-tight, ensuring proper alignment before final torque. Note: Specific torque values for aftermarket panhard bars are not provided in the factory specifications. Consult the panhard bar manufacturer's instructions for proper torque specifications, typically ranging from 80-120 Nm depending on design.
9. 9

   Final torque mounting hardware
   Following the aftermarket component manufacturer's specifications, torque the panhard bar mounting bolts/nuts to the specified value. Torque both ends while the suspension is at ride height (supported by the floor jack). Verify that the bar moves freely through its range of motion without binding and that all hardware is secure.
10. 10

    Reinstall wheels
    Remove the floor jack from under the suspension. Reinstall the rear wheels, threading lug nuts by hand initially. Lower the vehicle partially so the wheels contact the ground but are not bearing full weight. Torque the wheel lug nuts in a star pattern to specification.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts129 Nm (95 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Lower vehicle and final checks
    Fully lower the vehicle to the ground and remove jack stands. Rock the vehicle side to side several times to settle the suspension. Perform a final inspection of all mounting hardware to ensure nothing has loosened. Check for adequate clearance between the panhard bar and all surrounding components (exhaust, brake lines, fuel lines) through the full range of suspension travel.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all suspension fasteners are torqued to specification with vehicle at ride height
2. Verify panhard bar has adequate clearance to all brake lines, fuel lines, and exhaust components
3. Double-check wheel lug nuts after driving 50-100 miles

Verification

• Test drive the vehicle and verify improved handling stability if panhard bar was installed as an upgrade
• Listen for any clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension during driving and over bumps
• Visually inspect panhard bar mounting points after test drive to ensure no loosening or movement has occurred
• Have alignment checked if vehicle pulls to one side or exhibits unusual handling characteristics
• Re-inspect all mounting hardware after 100 miles of driving

More procedures for this vehicle