fits model: 4wd, Compass. make: Jeep. year: 2017–2021.

( Manufacturer Part Number: 68246731AC ), ( Items Included: Bushing, Nut ), ( Color: Black ), ( Vintage Part: No ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Rear, Right, Passenger Side ), ( Type: Sway Bar Link ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: 521180650 / 52118-0650 / 52118 0650 ), ( Features: Easy To Replace )
The **2017-2021 Jeep Compass 4WD Rear Right Stabilizer Sway Bar Link (Part #68246731AC)** is a precision-engineered suspension component designed to enhance the handling, stability, and overall driving experience of your Jeep Compass when equipped with four-wheel drive. This high-quality sway bar link is specifically tailored to fit the rear axle of the 4WD Compass models produced between 2017 and 2021, ensuring a seamless integration with the vehicle s suspension system. Crafted from durable, high-grade steel, the sway bar link is built to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures, daily commutes, and everything in between, providing reliable performance under varying load conditions and terrain. The link features a robust ball joint design, allowing for smooth articulation and reduced body roll during aggressive cornering or when navigating uneven surfaces, which helps maintain optimal tire contact with the road. This component plays a critical role in balancing the vehicle s weight distribution, minimizing unwanted lateral movement, and improving traction key factors for both on-road stability and off-road capability. Whether you re tackling rocky trails, deep mud, or simply enjoying a spirited drive on paved roads, this sway bar link ensures that your Jeep Compass remains responsive, controlled, and ready to handle whatever comes your way. Replacing a worn or damaged sway bar link with this genuine or high-quality aftermarket part can significantly reduce sway, improve ride comfort, and extend the lifespan of your suspension components, making it a worthwhile investment for any Jeep owner seeking to maintain peak performance and reliability.
### Pros and Cons of Buying a 2017-2021 Jeep Compass 4WD Rear Right Stabilizer Sway Bar Link (Part # 68246731AC)
#### **Pros:**1. **Improved Handling and Stability** The sway bar link is a critical component for maintaining proper alignment and reducing body roll during cornering, especially in a 4WD vehicle like the Jeep Compass. A worn or broken link can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a less responsive driving experience. Replacing it ensures smoother, more controlled handling.
2. **Prevents Further Damage** If the sway bar link is cracked, bent, or worn, it can cause excessive stress on other suspension components, such as bushings, ball joints, or even the sway bar itself. Replacing it early prevents costly repairs down the line.
3. **Enhanced Safety** Proper suspension function is essential for maintaining vehicle control, especially in off-road or uneven terrain. A failing sway bar link can compromise stability, increasing the risk of accidents or loss of control.
4. **OEM or High-Quality Replacement** The part you re considering (68246731AC) is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement, meaning it meets Jeep s exact specifications for fit, function, and durability. High-quality aftermarket alternatives can also be reliable if sourced from reputable brands.
5. **Easy Installation** The sway bar link is relatively straightforward to replace, typically requiring basic tools (socket wrench, C-clamp, and possibly a ball joint press). Many owners or even inexperienced DIYers can complete the job in under an hour.
6. **Long-Term Cost Savings** While the part itself is reasonably priced, ignoring a failing sway bar link could lead to more expensive repairs (e.g., sway bar breakage, suspension misalignment, or tire damage). Replacing it proactively saves money in the long run.
7. **Compatibility with Other Modifications** If you ve made suspension upgrades (e.g., lift kits, coilovers, or sway bar upgrades), ensuring the sway bar links are in good condition is crucial for maintaining the intended performance benefits of those modifications.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Cost of the Part** While not excessively expensive, the sway bar link is not a cheap component. Depending on the source (OEM vs. aftermarket), prices can range from **$30 to $80 per link**, with labor adding to the total cost if professional installation is required. For a Jeep Compass, you may need **two links (front and rear)**, doubling the expense.
2. **Potential for Counterfeit or Low-Quality Parts** If purchasing from an unknown seller (especially online), there s a risk of receiving a **counterfeit or substandard part** that fails prematurely. Always buy from trusted suppliers (Jeep dealerships, reputable auto parts stores, or verified online retailers).
3. **Labor Time and Complexity** While the replacement is manageable for DIYers, it requires **disconnecting the sway bar from the subframe or control arm**, which may involve removing a wheel, accessing the suspension, and possibly adjusting torque on bolts. Mistakes in installation (e.g., incorrect torque or misalignment) can lead to handling issues.
4. **Wear on Related Components** If the sway bar link has been failing for some time, other suspension parts (e.g., bushings, ball joints, or the sway bar itself) may also be worn. This could mean additional repairs are needed beyond just the link replacement.
5. **Limited Lifespan of OEM Parts** Even OEM parts have a finite lifespan, especially in vehicles driven frequently in rough terrain or off-road. The sway bar link may need replacement again in **50,000 to 100,000 miles**, depending on conditions.
6. **Potential for Over-tightening or Under-tightening** Improper torque on the sway bar link bolts can lead to **looseness (causing rattle or misalignment)** or **stripped threads (requiring replacement of the entire link or subframe holes)**. Following the manufacturer s torque specifications is critical.
7. **Time Off the Road** If you re not comfortable with suspension work, you ll need to schedule the repair with a mechanic, which may take **a few hours to a full day**, depending on shop availability.
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### **Conclusion:**Replacing a **2017-2021 Jeep Compass 4WD rear right stabilizer sway bar link (68246731AC)** is a **necessary and beneficial repair** if the part is worn, cracked, or broken. The benefits **improved handling, safety, and prevention of further damage** far outweigh the drawbacks, which are mostly related to **cost, installation difficulty, and potential for low-quality parts**.
The **most significant pros** (better stability, safety, and long-term savings) make this a **worthwhile investment**, especially if the vehicle is used for **daily driving, off-roading, or aggressive cornering**. The **cons** (cost, installation effort, and risk of counterfeit parts) can be mitigated by **purchasing from a trusted source** and either **DIYing the install carefully** or **having a mechanic perform it**.
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### **Recommendation:**1. **Verify the Need for Replacement** Before purchasing, confirm that the sway bar link is indeed the issue. Listen for **clunks or rattles** over bumps, check for **visible cracks or excessive play**, and inspect the bushings for wear. If unsure, a **suspension inspection by a mechanic** ( $50 $100) can confirm the problem.
2. **Buy from a Trusted Source**
- **OEM (Jeep Dealership or Authorized Parts Store)** Most reliable but may be pricier.
- **Reputable Aftermarket Brands** (e.g., **Dorman, ACDelco, or local Jeep specialty shops**) Often just as good as OEM at a lower cost.
- **Avoid unknown online sellers** unless they have **verified reviews and return policies**.
3. **Consider a Full Sway Bar Link Set** Since sway bar links come in pairs (front and rear), buying a **complete set** (even if only one side is bad) ensures balanced handling and prevents future issues.
4. **DIY or Professional Installation?**
- **If comfortable with basic suspension work**, DIY installation is **cost-effective** ( $30 $80 for parts vs. $150 $300 with labor).
- **If unsure**, a mechanic can install it in **1 2 hours** for a reasonable fee. Many shops offer **suspension alignment after installation**, which is recommended.
5. **Check for Additional Suspension Wear** While replacing the sway bar link, inspect the **sway bar bushings, ball joints, and control arm bushings** for wear. Replacing them proactively can save money later.
6. **Follow Torque Specifications** Use a **torque wrench** and adhere to Jeep s recommended torque values (typically **60 80 ft-lbs** for sway bar link bolts) to avoid stripping threads.
### **Final Verdict:****Buy and replace the sway bar link if it s failing.** The **performance, safety, and longevity benefits** justify the cost and effort. **Prioritize quality parts and proper installation** to ensure the best results. If you re not confident in your mechanical skills, **have a professional handle the job** to avoid mistakes that could worsen handling issues.
DRIVE TYPE: ALL WHEEL 4WD. DONOR VEHICLE: 2018 JEEP COMPASS. BODY TYPE: LATITUDE SPORT UTILITY 4-DOOR. MILEAGE: 85K MILEAGE.