A car’s steering system enables the car to turn and its suspension system smooths out the ride. However things can go wrong, making the ride rough or steering difficult or dangerous. This means time to repair. Many types of steering and suspension systems have been used to control cars. Older cars use mechanical suspension that relies on springs and shock absorbers but new cars use hydraulic cylinders called struts. Besides this, many of today’s cars rely on rack and pinion steering. Without proper care, a car’s steering system should give 80,000 to 100,000 miles of smooth turns.
Why The Car Doesn’t Turn Where It Is Turned?
Here are some tips for troubleshooting steering and suspension systems:
– If the car’s power steering system growls when turning, then the power steering booster fluid level needs to be checked.
– If the car makes strong squeal, the drive belt on the power steering unit should be checked.
– If the car shimmies, then the tire pressure should be checked for any damages.
– If the car leans hard in corners, the stabilizer and struts should be checked for loose parts and wear.
– If the older car is difficult to steer, then the steering system’s zerk fittings needs lubrication.
For repairing steering systems, follow this guide:
The tie-rod ends have to be inspected, adjusted and replaced if necessary. They connect the wheels to the steering unit. They can wear out if they damaged or worn. Mark the location of the old ones for the new ones to be replaced in the same position.
The steering gear unit has to be inspected adjusted and replaced if necessary. Adjustments can be made to steering gear systems with wrench and screwdriver. Help can be taken from the service manual. In case of replacement, the steering wheel and column may need to be removed first. The manual has to be consulted as every car is different. The repaired steering system can be checked by taking a test drive.
The car’s suspension system includes leaf springs, a stabilizer bar, a suspension arm, a shock absorber and/or MacPherson struts.
For replacing suspension parts, follow this guide:
First, find out the specific suspension parts of the car. Jack up the car and place safety stands under the wheels. Replace the bushings by removing the brackets holding the bar in place. Shock absorbers are installed inside the coil spring at each wheel and can be replaced by removing the bolts at the top and bottom that connect them to the suspension system. The manufacturer’s instructions have to be followed because shock absorbers and springs are under tension and can cause injuries if improperly removed. Remove the fasteners at the top and bottom that connect them to the suspension system. The car service manual will help in this. Replace the strut as a unit. Many cars have upper and lower suspension arms mounted on rubber bushings. For replacing them, loosen and remove a bolt on which the bushing is mounted.
