Steering & Suspension Services in Seattle, WA

What's Inside Your Steering and Suspension System?

Your steering and suspension system, also known as SAS, supports your vehicle, absorbs shocks and bumps, and allows your car to turn in response to your steering input. The system is very complex and comprised of hundreds of different parts, especially considering that there are many different types of suspension designs. However, there are also certain major subsystems, such as the wheels and tires, the springs, the shock absorbers and struts, as well as the linkages, joints and hydraulics. They all play a major part in keeping your car on the road, offering a smooth ride, and easy control and handling of your vehicle. They are also all prone to failure, which is why it's important to have your SAS checked regularly, especially if you live in areas with poorly maintained roads or rugged terrain.

Symptoms Of A Bad SAS System

Although in most cases mileage is a pretty good indicator of when to have your car checked, with regard to steering and suspension it is important to look for signs that indicate your SAS system is faltering. The sooner you get your vehicle inspected and fixed, the easier it will be. At Meineke #4154 in Seattle, WA, we conduct thorough assessments so be sure to bring your car in as soon as you experience issues such as noise coming from under your car (whether it's clunking, grinding, or rattling), excessive sway or lean when you're turning, or vibration in your steering wheel. Other symptoms may include uneven or premature tire wear or fluid leak from seals.

How SAS Evaluation & Repair Works

Having your steering and suspension properly serviced can save you a lot of money down the road as it could help eliminate uneven and premature tire wear, as well as alignment issues. Our certified technicians will conduct a thorough evaluation of your vehicle, including inspection of all struts, shocks and springs to determine any signs of wear or damage. Based on the results of the evaluation, we will prepare a detailed repair plan for you and go over all options, such as replacing or repairing parts, so that you can approve the entire process beforehand. When certain parts of the steering and suspension are replaced, existing wheel angles may change, so we always recommend wheel alignment with any SAS repair service.

Replacing or Repairing SAS Systems

Depending on the findings from your vehicle's evaluation, you may have different options when it comes to the repair process. Some parts of the steering and suspension system can be fixed, while others may need replacing. Bushings, for instance, play an important role in your car's suspension but they're made of flexible material such as rubber, which means they need to be replaced if they are worn or damaged. Coil springs on the other hand, are made with wide gap coils and they can be serviced, as can the steering gearbox or loose lug nuts. It's great to have options, but it's also very important to choose the proper repair plan, one that will keep your car and yourself safe. Contact us at Meineke #4154 in Seattle, WA and we'll help you understand more about what can be fixed and what needs replacing in your SAS system.

We Steer You Right

Come to Meineke #4154 in Seattle, WA for your steering and suspension service needs, or any other car trouble for that matter, and we will steer you right. That's our promise! Our experienced and trusted technicians will inspect your vehicle and properly determine the root problem, while also presenting you with options and solutions to get you back on the road. We'll make sure you understand all options available to you and recommend best course of action so that you're not back in the shop anytime soon. We'll identify exactly what repairs are necessary, but also inspect other parts such as wheel alignment, tires and brakes to make sure your car is safe to drive. We'll provide you with estimates and timelines so you're in full control of your repairs.