Here’s a look at the components of a typical suspension system that need to be checked regularly
SHOCKS and STRUTS
Shocks should be checked for proper operation, damage and leaks. If the actual shock absorber is damaged, it can’t move up and down properly and absorb the bumps in the road. Leaks of the hydraulic fluid show up as the shock being wet and/or oily. That fluid cannot be replaced and the entire shock has to be replaced.
STRUTS
Struts are used on some vehicles in place of shock absorbers. They look like a shock with a spring over top. The struts act to stabilize your vehicle and keep it from swaying, bouncing and bottoming out while absorbing the bumps from the road.
TIE RODS
Tie rods are part of the steering mechanism of your car. Tie rods help push and pull the front tires as the steering wheel is turned. They play a key role in the performance of your vehicle’s steering – and your safety. Faulty tie rods can result in erratic steering, wandering and significant tire wear.
BALL JOINTS
Many of the front-end sounds and clunks that you may hear can be symptoms of ball joint failure
The ball joint is the pivot between your vehicle’s wheels and its suspension system. This means they’re also critical to safe steering. Clicking. Snapping. Squeaking. Many front-end sounds are often symptoms of a bad ball joint.
Because these joints link your vehicle’s wheels to its suspension system, driving around with faulty ball joints is really a safety hazard. Come in to Big O Tires for an inspection today.
RACK AND PINION
Your vehicle’s steering system relies on the rack and pinion to make steering feel ‘tight.
Rack-and-pinion steering is quickly becoming the most common type of steering on cars, small trucks and SUVs.
The rack-and-pinion gearset does two things. First, it converts the motion of the steering wheel into the motion needed to turn the wheels. Second, it provides a gear reduction, making it easier to turn the wheels.
Simply put, your vehicle’s steering system relies on the rack and pinion to make steering feel ‘tight.’ Bring your vehicle to Big O Tires for a diagnosis of your steering system.
CV JOINTS AND CV AXLES
If you hear clicking noises when steering or making a turn, it’s probably because of a problem with your car’s CV joints or CV Axles. These components parts are found on all Front Wheel Drive (FWD) cars and some Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) cars.
CV stands for Constant Velocity. The CV Joints and CV Axles are found inside a rubber casing called a CV Boot.
Understand that torn CV boots and worn CV joints or axles can cause damage to transmissions and other components.