The job of keeping your tires on the road is handled by your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. They work together to give you a smoother ride and help you turn corners safely. Because your driving safety is a concern, it’s important to keep these components maintained properly. If you suspect a problem with either, you will want to bring your vehicle to Colonial Service Station in Staten Island, New York. The certified technicians at our auto repair shop can quickly diagnose and complete steering and suspension repairs on your vehicle.
Your Vehicle’s Suspension System
The steering and suspension systems work together to help you maintain control of your vehicle. The suspension system is particularly important for keeping the tires on the road over bumps. It also allows you to turn corners and go around curves without rolling your vehicle. One of the main parts of the suspension system is the shock absorber or the strut. Your vehicle is equipped with one or the other. When the shock or strut needs to be replaced, you may begin to notice it takes you longer to stop, the car bounces a lot more when you hit bumps, and you may notice more rolling or swaying when you go around turns. If you notice any of these signs of suspension problems, contact us to schedule an appointment.
The control bushings are another important part of a vehicle’s suspension system. They are located in the front and rear of your vehicle and are responsible for maintaining wheel alignment. If the control arm bushing is worn, you may hear clunking noises when you accelerate or put on the brakes. You will also notice that the tires are wearing unevenly.
Problems with the Steering System?
- Loose Steering – One of the more common problems vehicle owners notice with their steering system is looseness. Loose steering is often the result of a worn inner tie rod. The tie rods are responsible for keeping your vehicle stable as you ride over different types of road surfaces. It’s important to make sure the inner and outer tie rod ends are lubricated. Our certified mechanics can do that for you.
- Clicking Sounds When Turning Corners at Slow Speeds – The CV axle could be the culprit. A CV axle that is in good condition is heavily greased and protected by a rubber boot cover. As with any part of your vehicle, the rubber boot cover will begin to wear out, exposing the CV joint to the elements. The grease can then leak out, reducing the axle’s ability to lubricate the joint. This can become quite serious, especially if you hit a sudden bump. The CV joint can break, causing a serious accident. Contact our auto repair shop in Staten Island, New York, at the sign of any problems with your steering system.
Frequently Asked Questions on Steering and Suspension
How do I know if my shocks or struts need to be replaced?
Worn shocks or struts can cause your vehicle to bounce excessively over bumps, sway more when going around turns, or take longer to stop. These symptoms are signs that your suspension system should be inspected.
Why are my tires wearing unevenly?
Uneven tire wear can be caused by problems within the suspension system. For example, worn control arm bushings can affect wheel alignment and lead to uneven tire wear.
Why do I hear a clunking noise when accelerating or braking?
A clunking noise during acceleration or braking can be a sign of worn control arm bushings. These bushings are an important part of the suspension system and help maintain proper wheel alignment.
What can cause loose steering?
Loose steering can be caused by worn steering components, including inner tie rods. Tie rods help keep your vehicle stable as you drive over different road surfaces, so steering looseness should be inspected promptly.
Why does my car make a clicking noise when I turn?
Clicking when turning at slow speeds can indicate a problem with a CV axle or CV joint. A damaged CV boot can allow grease to leak out and expose the joint to dirt and other contaminants, eventually causing the joint to fail.