Suspension Shop & Repair in Evanston, Illinois

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.

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 #306 in Evanston, IL, 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.

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.

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 #306 in Evanston, IL, 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.