suspension
Panhard Bar/Track Bar
for 2017 Toyota Corolla 1.8L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Expert
Time
1.5 h
Tools
6
Steps
5
This procedure addresses a component not present on 2014-2019 Toyota Corollas. These vehicles use a torsion beam rear suspension without a Panhard bar or track bar.
Warnings
⚠️The 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla does NOT have a Panhard bar or track bar. This procedure cannot be performed as this component does not exist on this vehicle.
ℹ️The Corolla uses a torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs. Lateral location is controlled by the torsion beam design itself, not a Panhard bar.
⚠If you are experiencing rear axle lateral movement or alignment issues, inspect the rear suspension bushings, torsion beam mounts, and control arm bushings instead.
Tools required
Floor jackEssential
Jack stands (4)Essential
Torque wrenchEssential
Socket set (metric)Essential
Breaker barEssential
Wheel chocksEssential
Preparation
- Verify the actual suspension concern - Panhard bars are not used on this vehicle platform
- If lateral rear axle movement is suspected, prepare to inspect torsion beam mounting bushings and rear suspension components
- Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
- Place wheel chocks on front wheels
Procedure
- 1Verify Component AbsenceRaise the rear of the vehicle safely on jack stands and inspect the rear suspension. The 2014-2019 Corolla uses a torsion beam (twist beam) rear suspension. You will find a U-shaped beam connecting the two rear wheels with coil springs and shock absorbers. There is no Panhard bar, track bar, or lateral locating link present on this design.
- 2Identify Actual Suspension ComponentsThe rear suspension consists of: torsion beam axle assembly, two coil springs, two shock absorbers, and suspension bushings at the forward mounting points. Lateral location is inherent to the torsion beam design - the beam itself prevents lateral movement of the rear axle.
- 3Inspect for Actual ProblemIf you suspect rear axle lateral movement or dog-tracking, inspect the torsion beam front mounting bushings for deterioration, the shock absorber mounts for damage, and verify the rear alignment has not been compromised by impact damage to the beam itself.
- 4Check Alternative ComponentsExamine the two forward mounting points where the torsion beam attaches to the chassis via rubber bushings. These bushings can wear and allow unwanted movement. Also inspect the spring seats and shock absorber mounting points for damage or looseness.
- 5Consult Proper Repair ProcedureIf rear suspension repair is needed, consult the appropriate procedure for torsion beam bushing replacement, shock absorber replacement, or rear spring replacement depending on the actual diagnosis. A four-wheel alignment should be performed after any rear suspension repairs.
Reassembly
- This procedure does not apply to this vehicle as the component does not exist
- If other rear suspension work was performed, lower vehicle with weight on wheels before final torquing of torsion beam mounting bolts
- Torque wheel lug nuts to specification in star pattern
Verification
- Confirm vehicle model and year - Panhard bars are typically found on solid rear axle vehicles with leaf springs or certain live axle designs
- If rear handling issues exist, have a professional four-wheel alignment performed to diagnose the actual problem
- Test drive and verify rear suspension operates normally with no unusual noises or handling concerns