Strut Bar Explained: Pros & Cons + Value

It goes by many names... Strut Bar, Strut Tower Brace, Strut Brace, and more, but they're all a reinforcing component meant to stiffen up the vehicle where flex may occur. This video is going to explain the benefits and drawbacks of a strut tower bar, if it may be worth installing on your own car, and afterwards, you can see how it is installed in another video! There are definitely some things to consider before dropping some money on one of these!
0:00 • Strut Bar/Strut Brace/Strut Tower Bar/Strut Tower Brace Introduction
It goes by many names, but it always seeks to strengthen the frame/unibody by connecting one side to the other. Also covered: Strut Bar VS Sway Bar (A.K.A. Anti Roll Bar).
1:02 • Where Are Strut Bars Installed in a Vehicle?
You will likely see them most frequently under the hood if you go to car shows, but they can also be found at the rear of the vehicle.
1:42 • Can a Strut Bar be Installed on Any Vehicle?
Application-specific strut tower bars can have limited availability because someone has to produce them, but even custom fabrications have their limitations.
2:22 • If Both Strut Towers Flex, How Does Connecting One to The Other Help?
The benefits of a strut tower brace may not be immediately obvious if this comes to mind first, but the way the bar resists many types of movement is a key benefit one provides.
3:32 Why Stiffen Suspension, & Why Use a Strut Bar to do It?
If suspension is designed to move around and keep all the tires on the ground, how does stiffening the vehicle frame improve handling? Also, how is it any different than stiffer springs or bushings?
5:38 • Are There Any Drawbacks to Strut Tower Braces?
Strut braces sound like an all-around win! What's the catch? Here's where we get into the "cons" part of strut bar pros and cons.
6:36 • How do Strut Tower Bars Affect Collision Safety?
Crumple zones are intentionally designed areas that cause impact forces to occur more weakly over time instead of a short strong impact force all at once. What happens when you firm up the strut towers with a brace?
7:51 • Does a Strut Tower Brace Make Any Other Changes More Significant?
8:42 • If These Parts Really Improve The Vehicle, Why Doesn't The Manufacturer Install Them on Every Car?
It seems like a little bit more metal produced in high numbers (to improve economies of scale) that improves the car this much would make sense to include on every vehicle. What gives?
9:31 • Do Shock Tower Braces Have Any Effect on Vehicles with Double Wishbone Suspension?
9:55 • Why are Some Strut Tower Braces Adjustable?
• carssimplified.com/
Check us out on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and more: carssimplified.com/social-med...
/ cars
(Sometimes previews and exclusive content are shared on these platforms!)
Cars Simplified is a show dedicated to automotive education, including DIY repair, automotive news, auto industry changes, automotive technology, performance modifications, and more, all explained in a friendly and easy to digest manner!
#CarsSimplified #CarsSimplifiedS11 #Suspension #Struts #Chassis #DIY #Automotive #Cars #HowTo
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Cars Simplified, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Cars Simplified assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any video. Due to factors beyond the control of Cars Simplified, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Cars Simplified.
* Cars Simplified earns from qualifying purchases via the Amazon Associate program.

[@B00merBob]

I have a 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (SUV) so wasn't looking for a performance enhancer. On a bumpy road it feels like it's jumping all over the place. Shocks and springs are good so I wasn't sure if one would help in my situation. I went ahead and bought a Megan Racing front strut bar and it fixed the issue by 90%!

[@madetoremain]

HI -
i have Chevrolet epica 2009 with 2.4 6 cylinders engine - i remove the old engine and install new Toyota Camry engine every thing is great but i want to know
Do i have to change the RAD system from the original one ( expansion tank ) to Over flow type ?
Thanks

[@67judge]

Did you upgrade your Strut Bar on the GTO? I did mines with a BMR version 😅

[@CarsSimplified]

I have not, but after putting one on the Crosstrek, I want to get one for the GTO. I think I was looking at a BMR branded one as well.