Suspension is a combination of shock absorbers and dampers. This allows the car to maximize the contact between the tires and the road, improving stability. Suspension can often wear out or accumulate damage through hitting potholes or carrying excessive loads. It is wise to get an opinion from a specialist if you have any concerns because a compromised suspension system can reduce manoeuvrability on the roads.

How Do I Know If My Suspension Needs A Service or Replacement?

Potential signs or indications that your suspension may need a service or replacement:

Stiff Suspension

A tell-tale sign that your suspension needs a service is when you can feel every bump in the road and the general ride of your car becomes uncomfortable.

Vehicle Instability

Upon turning or braking, your car begins to rock and oscillate.

Uneven Tire Wear

Easy to inspect and a clear sign that the suspension of your car isn’t balancing the weight out evenly. 

Oil on your Shock Absorbers

Shine a light on your shocks or feel if there is oil. If there is oil, it is proof that they are worn and not working optimally, and generally need to be replaced.

The Bounce Test

If you are having any of the above issues with your suspension then the bounce test is an easy way to double-check the quality of your shocks and dampers. With all your weight, push down on the front end a few times in a bouncing motion and then release. If it continues to bounce more than two to three times, your suspension is wearing out. Do the same at the back to test the rear suspension.

The steering rack is a fundamental part of the car, as it transmits the input from the steering wheel to the front wheels. The majority of cars today use rack and pinion steering, which translates the circular motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion of the rack through the use of a gear system, interlocking teeth of the pinion gear to the rack. This is an essential component to have in optimal working condition, as any issues or excessive wear can put you in potentially dangerous positions. 

Our experienced specialists at the Steering Centre will fix any issues that you may have with your car’s steering rack and keep you driving in the right direction.

Does Your Steering Rack Need A Service or Replacement?

Potential signs or indications that your steering rack may need a service or replacement:

A Grinding Noise When Steering

This is a clear sign that a service is needed. There is a lack of lubrication causing the gearbox to grind and overheat. You will feel a vibration through the wheel and/or hear a grinding sound upon steering, especially on uneven roads.

Your Steering Wheel Is Tight

This symptom generally has to do with a loss in hydraulic pressure within a power steering unit, which may cause the steering to get very heavy. It can also be caused by an issue in the steering rack or gearbox. A tight steering wheel won’t fix itself and can cause further damages if not rectified as early as possible.

Fluid Leaks from Power Steering

An indicator of this is a red or pink fluid found beneath your car. It can also be found in combination with, previously mentioned, tight steering and can lead to overheating and damage.

There Is A Burning Oil Smell

A distinct aroma that will suggest that your steering gearbox is overheating. This can result in damage and even fire, and therefore it is wise to pull over in a safe spot and get in contact with a mechanic.

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