Steering & Suspension Services in Stafford, VA

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.

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 #1288 in Stafford, VA.

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 #1288 in Stafford, VA 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 #1288 in Stafford, VA 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.