When driving a car, the steering and suspension are two of the most integral systems working in the background to keep you on the road. It’s easy to take these systems for granted until a problem needs to be addressed. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to car ownership, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of your vehicle’s steering and suspension components and how they work. We’ll dive deeper into both systems and show you some common issues that you might run into along the way.
Steering System
The primary goal of the steering system is to allow the driver to change the vehicle’s direction quickly and smoothly while maintaining stability. The system’s main components are the steering wheel, steering box, steering column, and steering linkage. The driver holds onto the steering wheel and turns to change the direction of the wheels. The steering column connects the steering wheel to the steering box, a gear mechanism that transfers the steering input to the wheels.
Suspension System
The suspension system keeps the car stable and comfortable by controlling how it handles rough roads and turns. The primary components of the suspension system are springs, struts, and shocks. The shocks and struts are responsible for damping any bouncing or vibrations the car experiences, while the springs absorb any impacts from the road. You get a smooth and comfortable ride when all these components work together in unison.
Common Issues
If the steering system is not working correctly, you’ll notice the car pulling to one side or the other. A misaligned wheel or damaged steering components could cause this. A problem with the suspension system can cause a bumpy ride or excessive bouncing. If the shocks or struts are worn out, you might feel a significant vibration in the steering wheel or column.
Understanding how the steering and suspension systems work can help you diagnose potential issues with your car. While cars are incredibly complex machines that require in-depth knowledge to repair fully, having a basic understanding of the steering and suspension systems can go a long way toward spotting problems early and addressing them before they become more serious. If you’re ever unsure about your car’s steering and suspension systems, take it to a trusted auto repair shop to have it checked out by experienced technicians.