Suspension
A vehicle's suspension has two jobs: one, provide a smooth ride over bumps, and two, keep the wheels in contact with the road so you can safely control the car. Suspension parts wear out over time, and when they're worn, they can negatively impact the vehicle's ability to adapt to road conditions and handle properly. Nothing puts your car's suspension to the test, like hard driving, accident avoidance and the accompanying hard braking and sudden weight shifts. In these situations, new suspension parts could mean the difference between going off the road to avoid hitting another vehicle or maintaining control. Don't wait for an accident to learn that your suspension system is failing - get in touch at the first signs of something not being right.
COIL SPRINGS
Coil springs act as a buffer between the road and vehicle, absorbing and storing energy. There are several coil spring configurations. Some vehicles have a Macpherson strut-shock assembly, which combines the shock and spring into one unit. Other coil spring suspensions have a divorced coil spring and shock arrangement. Some have the shock through the coil spring but don't require spring removal for shock service. Signs that your coil springs need to be replaced include when the vehicle sags, droops, and/or handles poorly. Grinding, clicking or knocking noise can also sometimes be heard when turning the wheel left and right. If you are in any doubt about your suspension dont hesitate to contact C.A.R.S Mobile Mechanic and have it checked out or replaced.
TRACK ROD ENDS & BALLJOINTS
Track-rod ends are the final connecting point between your steering linkage and the wheels. The ball joints enable the front automotive suspension to travel up and down and the wheel to turn. The track-rod ends and ball-joints work together to allow the wheels to steer and move up and down at the same time. Worn track-rod ends and ball joints may cause erratic steering. A clunking sound when travelling over bumps could indicate worn ball joints. A popping sound when you move the steering wheel while parking may indicate worn track-rod ends. If a rubber boot is missing or damaged, chances are the part requires replacement. The rubber keeps dirt out, and grease in. Without grease, automotive suspension components quickly fail.
WHEEL BEARINGS
Wheel bearings are located inside the wheel's hub unit. They take on the load of the vehicle and enable the wheels to turn easily on their axle with little friction. Noise is usually the first sign of a worn set of wheel bearings. Listen for chirping, squealing, humming or grinding sounds that change with speed, noises that get louder or softer when turning. Also, feel for any wobbling or vibrations that seem to be coming from the tires as you drive. C.A.R.S Mobile Mechanic change wheel bearings for most makes / models on-site.
SHOCK ABSORBERS / STRUTS
Shocks and struts are your suspension system's primary and most important components. These two different parts serve a similar function -- limiting suspension travel. They do it by converting spring movement into heat energy, which is then dissipated usually by hydraulic fluid. The result is a vehicle that doesn't bounce continuously when driving on uneven, bumpy roads. Struts provide structural support and are most common on the front of cars. Shocks are mounted directly to the vehicle's frame on one end and the lower suspension on the other. They are most common on the rear suspension. Common signs that your shocks and/or struts need replacing include increased braking distances or the front-end "diving" downwards during stops, unstable steering, excessive bounce, and oil or other fluid leaking from the shocks. Shocks and struts may need replacing as soon as 30,000 miles, depending on the condition of the roads you drive. To have your shocks or struts checked or replaced contact C.A.R.S Mobile Mechanic to book an appointment.