Steering & Suspension

At Master Auto Repair, we’ve seen a lot of change in automotive technology over the decades, including suspension design. Your suspension is more than just what provides a smooth and controlled ride for your vehicle…it’s what allows you to keep your car under control on the road. The suspension and steering systems work together to control body lean while cornering, nosedive while braking and up-and-down motion after impact with a bump or pothole.

These are all indications that you may have steering and suspension issues that need to be addressed:

• Noticeable thump or clunk on impact with a bump or pothole
• Steering tends to wander, or excessive play in steering wheel
• Vehicle continues to bounce after hitting a pothole, bump or railroad tracks
• Excessive body lean while cornering
• Vehicle’s stance is lower in front or in back
• Vehicle’s stance leans to one side

What is Electronic Stability Control?

Newer vehicles also are designed with electronic stability control (ESC), a system of sensors and solenoids that limit and control body lean and suspension action. ESC is a complex system that requires specialized diagnostic and repair skills. At Master Auto Repair in Collinsville, IL, our ASE-certified techs are ready to address any ESC issues that your vehicle might be exhibiting.

Our Steering and Suspension Inspection

If you suspect an issue with your alignment, steering, or suspension, we'll take a took at the following:

• Inspection of tires for uneven wear, e.g. feathered wear pattern across tread or uneven wear at inside or outside edge
• Tightness of nuts and bolts
• Condition of all suspension bushings
• Condition of shocks
• Condition of drag link, Pitman arm, control arms, tie rods, tie rod ends, ball joints and all other steering/suspension components

Usually, the suspension parts on a vehicle are good for the vehicle’s entire life cycle. That doesn’t mean, though, that they can’t incur some damage from impact with a pothole or curb, or from a minor collision.

If you’re noticing any problems like the ones noted above, remember that it’s not just going to get better on its own! If you aren't sure or suspect and issue, make an appointment with us today.