Steering & Suspension Services in Modesto, CA

Why Are Steering and Suspension Important?

Steering and suspension may not be at the top of the list whenever you think about servicing your car, but they definitely should be. These are systems that help your vehicle drive smoothly and precisely. Commonly referred to as SAS, the steering and suspension system share some components, but they provide different benefits. The steering side is a complex chain of joints, levers and conversion devices that help control and guide your car, while the suspension side is made of springs, struts and hydraulics which keeps your vehicle at the proper height in order to absorb shock. There are two main types of steering systems: "rack and pinion" and "parallelogram", and they each require different approaches when you experience steering issues. The same is also true for suspension systems as there are many different designs available.

Warning Signs of Bad Steering and Suspension

Your SAS system is made of many different parts, most of which will eventually wear out and need replacement. Even though mileage is usually the indicator for having your vehicle checked, there are certain signs that you can look for as to understand when you should have your steering and suspension evaluated. If your car nose dives when braking, that's a sign your suspension needs checked. Same goes for when you experience excessive bouncing while going over bumps. Other symptoms can be related to uneven tire wear or bad spring coils, which make your car lean heavily to one side. If your steering wheel is harder to turn than usual or you notice premature wear on your tires, then this may be a sign of bad tie rods. A shaking or vibrating steering wheel is another warning sign. Contact us at Meineke #4316 in Modesto, CA to learn more or to schedule an inspection.

Steps in Solving Your SAS Problems

Evaluation is always the first step in any vehicle repair process, especially when it comes to steering and suspension. Since your car's SAS systems are comprised of hundreds of different parts and elements, it is important to have a thorough inspection in order to determine the proper cause of the symptoms. This inspection should include the front and rear end, the shocks, struts and coil springs, the wheel bearings and chassis parts, as well as the power steering and power steering fluid. The next step is the repair plan. Depending on the root of the problem, you will be presented with different options for repairs or replacements. Choosing the right repair plan is critical, which is why at Meineke, you can rely on our expert recommendations to get your car on the road stronger and for longer.

Benefit From Full Range of Services

While having options when it comes to your steering and suspension repair is important, it is also necessary to have a well-rounded inspection and service. SAS problems can create other issues as well, the most common ones being wheel angle changes and premature tire wear. At Meineke #4316 in Modesto, CA, we offer wheel alignment and tire rotation services, which will take care of those issues for you. Misaligned wheels can cause a range of other problems, so it's best to have them properly aligned in conjunction with any steering and suspension repairs you may be doing. Tire rotation will help prevent premature tire wear, while also improving safe handling of your vehicle.

Why Choose Meineke?

Taking care of your car shouldn't be a stressful, money draining experience. Even more so when it comes to your steering and suspension system which is crucial for a smooth and safe ride. To make sure you are in full control of your car, you need a trusted technician to inspect and work on your SAS system and that's exactly what you'll find at Meineke - greatly experienced, knowledgeable and trusted mechanics who will make sure to get things right the first time around. We want to get you back behind the wheel in the most time-saving, cost-effective manner possible, so be sure to give us a call or schedule an appointment to discuss your steering and suspension needs with our experts. Having a properly functioning SAS system has many benefits down the road and will end up saving you money as it improves gas mileage, prevents premature tire wear and keeps your car out of the shop for longer.