When you are on the road, the steering and suspension system of your vehicles is what helps you stay in control. The entire weight of your vehicle is carried by your shocks and steering system. Additionally, the steering system assists in providing a safer and smoother ride and keeps the your car’s tyres on the road while driving. A suspension wears out gradually and you may not notice any problems until the system fails. It’s important to have your suspension and steering system checked periodically to ensure your driving comfort and safety.

Worn suspension components will reduce the stability of the vehicle and reduce driver control, as well as accelerate wear on other suspension system components that could make driving unsafe. The suspension system supports the weight of a vehicle and keeps your tyres on the road when you make turns and press your brakes. A good working suspension is important to your safety and the safety of your passengers and it should be checked at first sign of not being right.

Common warning signs that indicate you need to have your steering and suspension system inspected by our mechanics include:

• Tyres shake or wander
• Problems while driving on uneven roadways or dips
• Having difficulties when steering
• Steering seems to be slipping
• Vehicle is still bouncing after going over a bump
• Vehicle is pulling to the side

Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers are usually used on cars and light trucks with standard suspension systems. Shock absorbers provide resistance by forcing hydraulic fluid through valves in the piston as it moves up and down which dampen movement of the vehicles springs as they compress and rebound during vehicle travel. The amount of resistance depends on how fast the suspension moves. Without shock absorbers your vehicle would continually bounce, making it difficult to control.

Shock absorbers not only give you a comfortable ride but they help ensure all four tyres stay in contact with the road for better stability and control. You should have your shock absorbers checked, by our licensed technician at Roselands Automotive, if they have been driven 80,000 kilometers or more.

Struts

Unlike shock absorbers, struts are a major structural part of the suspension. Struts perform two main jobs. First, they act like a shock absorber to dampen the movement of the springs as they compress and rebound. Secondly struts provide structural support for the vehicles suspension, support the spring and hold the tyre in an aligned position.

Struts affect riding comfort and handling as well as vehicle control, braking, steering, wheel alignment and tyre wear. It is recommended that you have your struts checked by a licensed technician if they have been driven 80,000 kilometers or more.

Springs

Springs perform three functions:

• Support the weight of the vehicle
• Maintain ride height
• Absorb road shock caused by bumps (and dips) in the road

There are two types of springs that may be used. Coil springs are the most common and may be used at both the front and rear of the vehicle; while the Leaf spring is made of several steel plates of different lengths and is commonly used at the rear of the vehicle.

Ride height measurements not within manufacturer’s specifications will necessitate replacement. In addition, it is very important that you replace the springs when needed, or you’ll likely end up with a host of other problems including accelerated tire wear, handling problems and wear and tear on other suspension components.