Common Steering & Suspension Diagnostic Costs
Ball Joint Inspection and Testing
Typical diagnostic time: 0.5-1 hour
Cost range: $62.50-$125
Additional notes: If replacement is needed, parts typically cost $40-$120 per ball joint plus 1-2 hours labor.
Power Steering System Diagnosis
Typical diagnostic time: 1-1.5 hours
Cost range: $125-$187.50
Additional notes: Repairs can range from simple fluid flush ($100-$150) to pump replacement ($300-$800 including parts).
Suspension Noise Investigation
Typical diagnostic time: 1-2 hours
Cost range: $125-$250
Additional notes: Common culprits include struts, shocks, or bushings. Complete repair costs vary widely based on findings.
Steering Alignment Check
Typical diagnostic time: 0.5-1 hour
Cost range: $62.50-$125
Additional notes: If alignment adjustment is needed, additional 1-hour labor ($125) typically required.
Tire Wear Pattern Analysis
Typical diagnostic time: 0.5 hour
Cost range: $62.50
Additional notes: Often performed in conjunction with alignment check. May indicate need for suspension repairs.
Steering Rack/Gear Evaluation
Typical diagnostic time: 1-2 hours
Cost range: $125-$250
Additional notes: Replacement if needed can range from $800-$2000+ depending on vehicle model.
Shock/Strut Performance Testing
Typical diagnostic time: 1 hour
Cost range: $125
Additional notes: Full strut replacement typically costs $400-$800 per pair including parts and labor.
Please note: These are estimated costs based on our shop rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make/model and the complexity of the issue. Additional parts costs are not included in diagnostic fees.
Important Disclaimer:The diagnostic fee will typically be applied toward the cost of repairs if performed at our facility within 30 days of diagnosis.
Common Steering & Suspension Diagnostic Procedures
Ball Joint Inspection & Replacement
Diagnostic Steps:
- Lift vehicle and secure with jack stands
- Check for excessive play using a pry bar
- Inspect rubber boot for tears or grease leakage
- Test vertical and horizontal movement
Repair Procedure:
- Remove wheel assembly
- Disconnect steering knuckle
- Remove old ball joint (press or hammer out)
- Clean mounting surface
- Install new ball joint
- Reassemble components
- Perform alignment check
Power Steering Leak Diagnosis
Diagnostic Steps:
- Visual inspection of all power steering components
- Check fluid level and condition
- Pressure test system
- UV dye test if leak source isn't obvious
Repair Procedure:
- Clean affected area thoroughly
- Replace faulty component (hose, pump, rack, etc.)
- Flush system if necessary
- Fill with new power steering fluid
- Bleed air from system
- Test operation
Shock/Strut Replacement
Diagnostic Steps:
- Bounce test each corner of vehicle
- Check for fluid leaks
- Inspect mounting points
- Road test for unusual noises
Repair Procedure:
- Remove wheel assembly
- Disconnect brake line if necessary
- Remove strut assembly
- Replace strut or entire assembly
- Reinstall in reverse order
- Torque all fasteners to spec
- Perform alignment
Tie Rod End Inspection
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check for loose steering
- Inspect boot condition
- Check for play in joint
- Look for uneven tire wear
Repair Procedure:
- Mark position of old tie rod
- Remove old tie rod end
- Install new tie rod to marked position
- Tighten to specified torque
- Perform alignment
Steering Rack Diagnosis
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check for fluid leaks
- Listen for unusual noises
- Test for binding or rough spots
- Check input shaft play
Repair Procedure:
- Remove steering column shaft
- Disconnect tie rod ends
- Remove rack mounting bolts
- Install new rack
- Reconnect all components
- Fill and bleed system
- Perform alignment
Control Arm Bushing Inspection
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check for clunking noises
- Inspect rubber bushings for cracks
- Check for excessive movement
- Look for uneven tire wear
Repair Procedure:
- Remove wheel assembly
- Support control arm
- Remove old bushings
- Press in new bushings
- Reassemble components
- Perform alignment
Note: All procedures should be performed by qualified technicians using proper tools and safety equipment. Torque specifications and exact procedures may vary by vehicle make and model.
Steering & Suspension Diagnostics
Ball Joint Inspection
Ball joints are crucial pivot points that connect your vehicle's suspension and steering components. During inspection, technicians check for excessive wear, looseness, and proper lubrication. Worn ball joints can cause unsafe handling, uneven tire wear, and clunking noises when driving over bumps.
Tie Rod End Inspection
Tie rod ends connect your steering system to the wheels. This diagnostic checks for wear, damage, and proper alignment. Faulty tie rod ends can cause steering wheel vibration, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear, compromising your vehicle's handling and safety.
Control Arm Inspection
Control arms connect your vehicle's frame to the suspension components. Technicians examine bushings, mounting points, and overall condition. Damaged control arms can result in poor handling, excessive noise, and uneven tire wear.
Shock/Strut Performance Test
Shocks and struts control your vehicle's bounce and stability. This test evaluates their dampening ability and overall condition. Worn shocks or struts can lead to poor ride quality, increased stopping distance, and unsafe handling, especially during emergency maneuvers.
Power Steering System Analysis
This diagnostic checks your power steering pump, hoses, fluid condition, and steering gear. Technicians look for leaks, unusual noises, and proper operation. Issues can result in difficult steering, whining noises, and potential system failure.
Steering Alignment Check
This comprehensive test measures your vehicle's wheel alignment angles. Proper alignment ensures straight tracking, even tire wear, and optimal handling. Misalignment can cause pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, and reduced fuel efficiency.
Bushing Inspection
Bushings are rubber components that reduce vibration and allow controlled movement between parts. This inspection checks for deterioration, cracks, and proper function. Worn bushings can cause excessive noise, poor handling, and accelerated wear of other components.
Steering Rack/Box Inspection
The steering rack or box is the core of your steering system. Technicians check for leaks, proper operation, and mounting security. Problems can lead to loose steering, fluid leaks, and inconsistent steering response.
Sway Bar Link Inspection
Sway bar links help control body roll during cornering. This diagnostic checks for wear, damage, and proper connection. Faulty links can cause clunking noises, poor handling in turns, and increased body roll.
Electronic Steering System Scan
For vehicles with electronic power steering, this diagnostic uses computer scanning to check for system errors and proper operation. Issues can affect steering assist, system performance, and safety features.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Steering and Suspension Problems
Common Steering & Suspension Diagnostic Issues
Ball Joints
Signs of Failure:
- Clunking noise when going over bumps
- Uneven tire wear
- Vehicle wandering or pulling to one side
- Steering feels loose
Service Schedule: Inspect every 50,000 miles or when symptoms occur. Replace as needed.
Tie Rod Ends
Signs of Failure:
- Steering wheel vibration
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Poor steering response
- Clicking noise when turning
Service Schedule: Inspect during alignment service or every 50,000 miles.
Shock Absorbers/Struts
Signs of Failure:
- Bouncy or unstable ride
- Vehicle nose-diving when braking
- Visible fluid leaks on shock/strut body
- Uneven tire wear
Service Schedule: Replace around 50,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Control Arms
Signs of Failure:
- Clunking noise from front end
- Vehicle pulling to one side
- Steering wheel vibration
- Uneven tire wear
Service Schedule: Inspect bushings and arms every 50,000 miles.
Sway Bar Links
Signs of Failure:
- Rattling noise when driving over bumps
- Excessive body roll when cornering
- Clunking sound during turning
Service Schedule: Inspect every 50,000 miles or when symptoms occur.
Power Steering System
Signs of Failure:
- Whining noise when turning
- Stiff or difficult steering
- Fluid leaks
- Squealing noise on startup
Service Schedule: Check fluid level every oil change. Flush system every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Wheel Bearings
Signs of Failure:
- Humming or growling noise that changes with speed
- Steering wheel vibration
- ABS warning light activation
- Uneven tire wear
Service Schedule: Inspect during tire rotations. Replace as needed, typically 85,000-100,000 miles.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and follow manufacturer recommendations.
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.
Common Questions
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.
