Steering & Suspension Services in Wilmington, DE

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.

When Should I Check My Steering and Suspension?

When it comes to the steering and suspension system of your vehicle, there are many factors to be taken into account and many forces and angles that need to be maintained or acted upon. A properly functioning SAS is vital for the safety of your ride, but it can also greatly reduce the cost of operating your car. Therefore, it's best to take your car in at the first signs of trouble, which are usually issues with the way your car steers or steering wheel vibrations. Another common sign is a vehicle that's hard to control or bounces too much. You may think that you can live with a little bounce here and there, but that can actually increase the braking distance and therefore the chances of an accident. Learn more about common signs of bad steering and suspension by contacting Meineke #569 in Wilmington, DE.

The Steering and Suspension Repair Process

SAS problems not only can cause a bumpy ride, but can also lead to other problems such as alignment issues. This is why the repair process always starts with a system inspection which covers the shocks and struts, bushings, the upper and lower ball joint, tire rod ends, the rack and pinion or steering gear box, and many other components of the steering and suspension system. This thorough inspection will help determine the cause of your vehicle's symptoms, and also help draft a detailed report. Based on this information, our expert technicians will be able to provide a repair plan and go over the results with you so you can approve any repairs. We always aim to provide a transparent, straightforward process to help you make the best decisions for your car.

Know Your Options

Like with any other services that we provide, our steering and suspension repair is based on a detailed plan that gives you options. Some parts can be fixed and worked on, while others, such as shocks and struts, need replacement from the get-go, but our expert and experienced technicians will always walk you through the process and explain the ins and outs of each option. They will also recommend any additional services your vehicle may need based on the initial evaluation or on the work that's being planned. These usually refer to tire rotation or wheel alignment (which goes hand in hand with SAS services), as proper alignment increases the life of your tires, improves the car's mileage and makes it easier to handle the vehicle.

Make The Smart Choice

Having options is great, but making the right choice is what's of utmost importance. Whether it's choosing the right repair shop for you or the right repair plan for your vehicle, you need to be smart about it. Here, at Meineke #569 in Wilmington, DE, we are by your side every step of the process to help you choose wisely. We have expert, trusted technicians and offer a complete range of services with numerous money-saving options, which makes us a smart choice for your auto repair destination. We also conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle and, while presenting you with all options, we always make the best recommendations for a repair plan that will keep you and your car on the road for longer.