Signs you need suspension and steering repair
- Clunking or knocking over bumps
- Steering feels loose or wanders on the highway
- Vehicle pulls to one side
- Bouncy or floaty ride after bumps
- Nose dives when braking
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Squeaks or creaks when turning
- Steering wheel off center
- Whining or groaning when turning the wheel
- Power steering fluid leak
If the steering suddenly feels very loose, a wheel looks tilted or you hear loud clunking while turning, stop driving, since a failed ball joint or tie rod can cause loss of control. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Common causes
Worn sway bar linksLinks and their bushings wear and cause clunks over uneven pavement. They are a common and usually simple repair.
Worn tie rod endsTie rods connect the steering to the wheels. Play in them causes loose steering and tire wear.
Worn ball jointsBall joints let the wheels move and steer. A badly worn one can separate, so they need attention when they show play.
Worn shocks or strutsWorn dampers allow bouncing, nose dive and poor control, especially on rough roads.
Control arm bushingsCracked or soft bushings let the suspension shift, causing clunks and alignment changes.
Wheel bearing wearA failing wheel bearing usually hums or growls and gets louder with speed or in turns.
Power steering problemsLow fluid, a leaking hose or a failing pump can make steering heavy and noisy. Many newer vehicles use electric steering with different failure modes.
What gets done where it's parked, and what needs a shop
Usually done on site
- Suspension and steering inspection for worn joints and leaks
- Sway bar link and bushing replacement
- Tie rod end replacement
- Shock and strut assembly replacement
- Control arm and ball joint replacement on many vehicles
- Wheel bearing and hub assembly replacement
- Power steering fluid service and hose replacement
May need a shop or lift
- Wheel alignment after steering or suspension work
- Pressed-in ball joints or bearings that need a hydraulic press
- Heavily rusted parts that need a lift and heat to remove
- Steering racks and gearboxes on some vehicles
- Leaf spring, air suspension or heavy duty work beyond what the mechanic lists
Every mechanic's setup is different. The one who accepts your request will tell you if your job needs a shop.
Before the mechanic arrives
- Note when you hear the noise: bumps, turns, braking or at speed
- Park on firm, level pavement with room around the wheels
- Have the wheel lock key ready if you have locking lug nuts
- Mention recent tire wear or alignment work
- Tell the mechanic if you tow or carry heavy loads
Photos of warning lights, leaks or damage help the mechanic bring the right parts. You can add up to five with your request.
Questions to ask when you get a quote
- Which parts have play, and can you show me?
- Will I need an alignment after this repair?
- Should parts be replaced in pairs on both sides?
- Are you quoting complete strut assemblies or just the struts?
- Is any of this safety critical right now, or can some wait?
- Can all of this be done here, or does part of it need a shop?
Trackara never handles payment for the work. You agree the price with the mechanic before they start, and you pay them directly. How to read a repair quote.
Vehicles this applies to
Suspension and steering repair: questions and answers
Often, yes. Many mobile mechanics replace shocks and complete strut assemblies where the vehicle is parked. They need level, firm ground and room to work, and you may need an alignment afterward.
Replacing tie rods, control arms or struts usually changes alignment, so plan on one afterward. Mobile mechanics typically do not carry alignment equipment, so ask them where they recommend getting it done.
Common causes are worn sway bar links, bushings, ball joints or strut mounts. A mechanic can check each part for play with the vehicle raised safely to find the one that is worn.
A worn ball joint can separate and cause the wheel to collapse or steer uncontrollably. If a mechanic finds significant play, have it replaced before driving much further.
Send a free repair request describing the noise or handling problem. The mechanic who accepts will inspect and quote before starting, and you pay them directly. You can also read how to describe a car problem first.