Any help here. I'm not a suspension guy, so not certain what I have going on here. Looks like the shock blew a seal or something. My question, what is the impact on driving and handling in this state, and what kind of job to replace. Looks like just a couple bolts. What is a horizontal shock called?

 

That is a stabilizer shock.. easy fix.. I would do both sides.

 

That steering stabilizer looks aftermarket. Might be better help to find a replacement if you brought that one to the parts store with you so they can measure it out. Simple job with minimal tools.

 

While at Auto Zone today to get an idea on pricing, they said exactly what the previous poster said, which is it looks aftermarket, try to find a part number to cross reference. I went out and took a close look when I noticed the component above it didn't look right. The dust boot is not sealed here. Question here is, what is that, and is it broke? What kind of job is that?

 

Just bumping this thread. I had thought I was looking at a CV Boot or Axel, but after looking around, realized with my 2WD, no axle. So what is the component with the loose boot above the horizontal stabilizer shock called?

 

steering rack. i.e. rack and pinion. A big zip tie should hold it in place. Pull it back up where it wants to be and secure it.

 

So just a loose boot, not a big deal? I have a hose clamp I'm going to secure it with.