Steering & Suspension Services in Manchester, CT

Understand Your Steering and Suspension Systems

Your vehicle's suspension and steering are actually parts of the chassis and are two very important systems for the stability and control of your car. The suspension system is in charge of supporting the weight of your car, helping maintain tire contact, and therefore absorbing or dampening the shock. Simultaneously, the steering system is the mechanism that allows you to direct and guide your vehicle. The suspension is comprised of three fundamental components: springs, dampers, and anti-sway bars which help absorb the motion of the wheels, control unwanted spring motion, and provide additional stability. It is therefore essential that your steering and suspension work properly and are carefully maintained so that you can have full control of your vehicle and also enjoy an "un-bumpy" ride.

Evaluating Your Steering and Suspension - When To Do It?

A faulty SAS system can add to alignment issues and greatly impact your braking distance, making for a very bumpy ride - literally. Therefore, if you feel like your car is hard to steer or handle, or if you feel a vibration in your steering wheel or excessive play, then those are signs that your steering and suspension systems need to be checked. Other warning signs include abnormal sway or lean in turns, excessive noise when driving over bumps, and uneven wear of your tires. As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, bring your car in for a check. You can learn more by contacting our experts at Meineke #1008 in Manchester, CT.

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.

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 #1008 in Manchester, CT and we'll help you understand more about what can be fixed and what needs replacing in your SAS system.

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.