Steering & Suspension
Service and Cost
Typical Cost
Typical Service Procedure
1. Inspection and Diagnosis
A thorough inspection of the steering and suspension system to identify worn or damaged parts. Diagnosis of issues such as unusual noises, vibrations, or handling problems.
2. Replacement Parts
Steering Components:This may include tie rods, steering rack or gearbox, power steering pump, and steering column.
Suspension Components:Common parts include shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar links, and bushings.
Springs:Coil springs or leaf springs may be replaced if they are sagging or broken.
3. Repair Services
Alignment:After replacing steering or suspension components, a wheel alignment is often necessary to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Balancing:Wheel balancing might be performed to eliminate vibrations.
Lubrication:Moving parts may be lubricated to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.
4. Labor
The labor involved in removing old parts and installing new ones, which can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the repair and the vehicle model.
5. Testing
Post-repair testing to ensure that the steering and suspension systems are functioning correctly and that the vehicle handles properly.
6. Warranty
We offer comprehensive warranty coverage on parts and labor, providing peace of mind for your repair investment.
7. Additional Services
In some cases, additional services such as tire rotation or inspection of related systems (like brakes) may be recommended or included.
The exact components and services required can vary based on the make, model, and condition of your vehicle. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly assess your vehicle’s needs and provide professional recommendations for optimal performance and safety.
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What is a Steering & Suspension and What Does It Do?
In a vehicle, the steering and suspension systems are crucial for ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. Here’s a breakdown of the key components in each system:### Steering System Components:
1. Steering Wheel: The interface between the driver and the vehicle’s steering system. It allows the driver to control the direction of the vehicle.
2. Steering Column: Connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism. It often includes a collapsible section for safety in the event of a collision.
3. Steering Gearbox/Rack and Pinion: Converts the rotational motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion needed to turn the wheels. Rack and pinion systems are common in modern vehicles.
4. Tie Rods: Connect the steering gear to the wheel hubs. They transmit the force from the steering gear to the wheels, allowing them to pivot.
5. Power Steering Pump: Provides hydraulic pressure to assist in steering, making it easier to turn the wheel. Some modern vehicles use electric power steering systems instead.
6. Steering Knuckles: Connect the suspension and steering components to the wheels, allowing them to pivot and turn.### Suspension System Components:1. Springs: Support the weight of the vehicle and absorb shocks from the road. Common types include coil springs, leaf springs, and torsion bars.
2. Shock Absorbers/Dampers: Work alongside springs to dampen the oscillations and control the motion of the suspension. They help maintain tire contact with the road.
3. Struts: A type of shock absorber that also provides structural support for the suspension. They are often integrated with a coil spring in a single unit.
4. Control Arms: Connect the wheel hub to the vehicle frame, allowing for controlled movement of the wheels. They are pivotal in maintaining proper wheel alignment.
5. Ball Joints: Allow for the pivoting movement of the control arms and steering knuckles, facilitating smooth steering and suspension articulation.
6. Stabilizer/Sway Bar: Reduces body roll during cornering by linking the left and right sides of the suspension. It helps maintain vehicle stability.Both systems work together to provide a comfortable ride, precise handling, and safety. The steering system allows the driver to direct the vehicle, while the suspension system absorbs road irregularities and maintains tire contact with the road for optimal traction and control. Regular maintenance of these components is essential for vehicle safety and performance.
Signs of a bad Steering & Suspension
The steering and suspension systems are critical for the safe and efficient operation of a vehicle. Recognizing the signs of failure in these systems can help prevent further damage and ensure safety. Here are some common signs of failure for parts in the steering and suspension systems:### Steering System
1. Difficulty Steering: – If the steering wheel is hard to turn or feels stiff, it could indicate a problem with the power steering system, such as low power steering fluid, a failing power steering pump, or a malfunctioning steering rack.
2. Steering Wheel Vibration: – Vibration in the steering wheel, especially at certain speeds, can be a sign of unbalanced tires, misaligned wheels, or worn-out steering components like tie rods or ball joints.
3. Loose Steering: – A steering wheel that feels loose or has excessive play can indicate worn steering components, such as tie rods, steering rack, or steering column issues.
4. Steering Wheel Pulls to One Side: – If the vehicle pulls to one side while driving, it could be due to misaligned wheels, uneven tire pressure, or worn steering components.
5. Noisy Steering: – Unusual noises like squealing, whining, or clunking when turning the steering wheel can indicate issues with the power steering system or worn-out components.### Suspension System1. Rough Ride: – If the vehicle feels excessively bumpy or you feel every bump in the road, it could indicate worn-out shock absorbers or struts.
2. Uneven Tire Wear: – Uneven tire wear can be a sign of misalignment, worn suspension components, or improper tire inflation.
3. Nose Diving or Squatting: – If the vehicle’s front end dives sharply when braking or the rear squats when accelerating, it may indicate worn shocks or struts.
4. Leaning or Sagging: – A vehicle that leans to one side or sags can indicate a broken or weak spring or issues with the suspension system.
5. Excessive Bouncing: – If the vehicle continues to bounce after hitting a bump, it could be a sign of worn shock absorbers or struts.
6. Clunking or Knocking Noises: – Unusual noises when driving over bumps or turning can indicate worn or damaged suspension components, such as control arms, bushings, or ball joints.
7. Steering Wheel Vibration: – Similar to the steering system, vibration in the steering wheel can also be caused by suspension issues, such as worn-out components or misalignment.Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify these issues early and prevent more significant problems. If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
