What type of link is used in a vehicle's suspension system to stabilize lateral movement?

The sway bar, also known as an anti-sway bar, is specifically designed to reduce the amount of lateral movement or body roll that occurs when a vehicle turns. This type of link connects the left and right sides of the suspension and helps to transfer load from one side to the other, enhancing the stability of the vehicle during cornering. By minimizing body roll, the sway bar plays a crucial role in maintaining tire contact with the road, improving handling and safety.

In contrast, control arms primarily help to position and support the wheel assemblies while allowing for vertical movement. Coil springs provide support to the vehicle's weight and absorb bumps, which assists with ride comfort but does not specifically address lateral stability. Strut assemblies, while they may incorporate a coil spring and provide structural support, also focus more on ride control and suspension travel rather than lateral stabilization. Therefore, the sway bar is the component that specifically functions to stabilize lateral movement in a vehicle's suspension system.