Steering and Suspension
Needed Steering and Suspension repairs generally manifest themselves in a few ways. First, abnormal tire wear is a good indication that there may be something wrong with either system. That could be something as simple as a wheel alignment. Secondly, stiffness when steering or noise from the front or rear end while driving could indicate a failed or worn component. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend that the Steering and Suspension be inspected on almost every service interval. Such inspections are usually visual and do not take much time. Some shops will try and recommend shock or strut replacement as a preventative service. Keep this in mind when dealing with retail tire outlets. Shocks and struts do eventually wear out, the frequency of which is largely dependant on the type of loads the vehicle carries and the type of driving the vehicle is exposed to. Maintaining proper wheel alignment is usually the only type of maintenance required on the part of the vehicle owner. Also, keep your tires rotated and balanced regularly. Infrequent tire rotations can lead to premature tire wear and may lead one to believe that there is an issue with the vehicle’s Steering or Suspension.
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 The steering and suspension systems are not only important for safety reasons but also to enhance the comfort of your car's ride. The two systems are directly related to each other, which is why they are often referred to as steering and suspension. Today, there are two basic types of steering systems: 1) standard mechanical (reciprocating ball) steering and 2) rack and pinion steering the most popular in modern vehicles. The standard mechanical steering can be either power-assisted or non-power. Rack and pinion is almost always power-assisted, although there are rare cases in smaller cars where it is not.
Suspension is the term given to the system of shock absorbers and linkages that connect a car to its wheels. The suspension system has two basic functions: 1) to keep the car's wheels in firm contact with the road to provide traction and 2) to provide a comfortable ride for the passengers and isolate them from road noise, bumps and vibrations. There are many forces and angles that have to be acted upon and maintained. If you notice any problems in the way your car steers or rides or you feel any body or steering wheel vibrations, you should have it checked out as soon as possible.
Replacing your car's struts and shocks when required is vitally important to your safety and reduces the cost of operating your car through reduced tire wear, better gas mileage and lower maintenance costs on other suspension and steering components.
Routine inspection and maintenance of your car's suspension system includes:
Inspect shocks regularly for leaks, cracks and other damage.
Look for vehicle bounce, sway when cornering and "nose dives" when braking.
Check for uneven tire wear, which may indicate worn shocks and struts.
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