When you think about it, there are so many systems in your car that must work properly in order for you to be safe. And steering is certainly one of them. The last thing you want to be while you’re driving is out of control. With service at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, you can trust your car’s suspension is in good shape — because our pros won’t steer you wrong.
Your car’s suspension system is a group of components that includes your car’s wheels, springs, shock absorbers, struts, arms, bars, linkage, bushings and joints. This system absorbs the impact of the road to give you a smooth ride, keeps your tires in proper contact with the road and also helps you control your vehicle by assisting with steering.
Your car’s steering column is connected to your car’s suspension system and, working together, they provide a smooth ride while also controlling handling performance. Issues with your suspension system, such as wear and tear on shocks, struts and springs, can have a negative impact on your car’s steering system as well.
Excessive bounce – If you notice your car bounces more than normal when going over dips and potholes, you could have a suspension system problem.
Uncomfortable ride – If you can feel every bump or obstacle in the road from your seat, it’s time to get your suspension checked out.
Dipping and swaying – This type of movement, especially in the front end of your vehicle and when turning, could mean suspension issues.
Drifting and pulling — Your suspension system helps with steering and control, so if you find your vehicle is difficult to steer or keeps drifting to one side of the road, it’s time to consult our experts.
Power steering is a mechanical system that makes it easier for you to steer and control your car. It requires you to exert less energy and makes your car more responsive to your steering actions.
First introduced in the 1950s, power steering relied on hydraulic fluid pressurized by a pump. The downside to this system was the need to replace the fluid periodically, and if it leaked, you lost your power steering (the upside were strong forearms!).
In the early 2000s, however, hydraulic power steering was replaced by high-tech, electrical power steering (EPS). Today, most cars have EPS, which – in addition to making steering easier – provides a whole host of other safety and efficiency features.
Stiff steering – If your steering wheel feels stiff and harder to turn, and your car is less responsive to your steering efforts, you could have a power steering problem.
Whining, squealing and groaning noises – If you hear any of these types of noises when you turn your car’s steering wheel or when you start your vehicle, you probably need to get it checked out.
Power steering fluid leak – This is only an issue in older vehicles with hydraulic power steering. Typically power steering fluid is a red-colored liquid that would be leaking out of the front half of your car.
Our team will check your car’s power steering fluid — if you have a hydraulic system — as part of our complimentary 20-point courtesy inspection performed during our signature 10 minute oil change.
If you have concerns about your suspension and steering system, you can make an appointment to have your vehicle checked out at any of our locations.