Cars Like Us, We Like Cars

A Brief Tour Of Troubleshooting Your Car’s Suspension

Vehicle suspension is critical for a stable, smooth ride and minimizing damage caused by irregularities in the road. However, with multiple subsystems and components, pinpointing and fixing problems can be difficult (to say the least). Even the smallest bump or knock could hint at a more serious issue; in order to avoid damage, always make repairs promptly.

In today’s article, we’ll briefly discuss a few issues that a lot of drivers experience with their suspension systems. I’ll suggest a few tips regarding how to troubleshoot and repair small problems. We’ll also explore how problems can develop in your vehicle’s steering.

Common Suspension Problems: Troubleshooting and Repair

If your car tends to drift to one side while driving, this could be a sign of tire, steering, brake, or alignment problems. First, check the tire pressure to see if it is low or varies from tire to tire. Fill the tires and equalize the pressure as needed. In addition, check for uneven wear and replace the tires if necessary. Another possibility might involve steering component issues; check the steering rack and tie bars and adjust them if they’re loose. Lastly, sticking brake calipers could be causing a problem; signs of improper wear patterns and unnecessary heat production indicates that it may be time to have a mechanic perform a few tests.

Second, dipping – when the car keeps bouncing after traveling over a pothole or bump – is a sign of shock, strut, or spring failure. The shocks and struts may need to be replaced, but leaf springs may only need to be reset.

Common Steering Issues

Steering is part of the suspension system, but deserves its own section because of the number of problems associated with it. Steering issues need to be given special attention; while a run-of-the-mill suspension issue is annoying, poor steering can be dangerous and even deadly.

If your car emits a loud screech while turning at low speeds or while making sharp turns, the problem lies in the fluid levels or steering belt. Check the level of power steering fluid and add more if the levels are low. Second, check the steering belt and adjust it if it’s loose. If it is significantly worn, you may been to buy a replacement.

If steering is overly difficult, along with checking fluid levels and belts, the steering pump or rack could be broken. Check the pump pressure and replace the unit if necessary. Steering rack problems often translate into leaks, so you may need to replace the entire unit to resolve the problem.

Alternatively, if the steering is loose, the problem could lie in the strut bearings, tie rods, or ball joints. If they’re severely worn, the strut bearings will need to be replaced in pairs. For worn ball joints, and worn or broken tie rods, ask your mechanic whether he recommends replacing them.

Cars Like Us

Subscribe to our Feed

Be Sociable, Share!

•