Hello,



I was hoping someone could help
me and tell me what is broken from the pictures here. I am not sure
exactly how to describe it so I took some images and marked what I am
talking about. If it can be identified, could you help me with the following;



1. What it is

2. How much of an effort to fix by yourself

3. Typical cost (on average if possible) something like this would run at a mechanic.



The odd thing is on the driver side, whatever it is the black tube thing
is sticking to the "arm bar" which moves freely. It almost like it is a
bumper of sorts, but on the passenger side, the black tube is stuck to
the steel bar next to the tire (can you tell I am not an auto guy) and
the free moving bar does not have the black tube attached.



I greatly appreciate everyone's help. I hope I am posting this in the right forum!

Is it possibly the front sway bar?



Also, whatever it is...Is it imperative to fix it right now or is it
safe to drive on for a bit while I get parts or an appointment for a
mechanic?

its the anti roll bar to lower control arm link...more commonly known as a drop link on newer cars.

the bolt has sheared off, probably due to corrosion of bolt.

should be able to purchase the bolt/bushes/washers as a complete kit, from memory it didnt have to come from dealers either, a good local car factors should be able to source you a pair.

as a job, they can be a little tricky.

often had to cut the bolt to remove, but once out, so long as you make a note of how the bushes/washers are assembled, fairly easy to refit using a new kit..

garages/mechanics should be able to replace both sides in 1 to 1.5 hours max, so depends on local labour rates.

would never state its safe to drive with anti roll bar issues, so all i can say is that i know people who have had no issues whilst driving sensibly and keeping speed down especially round corners/roundabouts etc...take from that what you will

but needs to be sorted soon as possible