Common Steering and Suspension Problems and Their Fixes
When your vehicle doesn’t drive the way it used to—maybe it feels bumpy, unsteady, or difficult to steer—it’s often a sign of steering or suspension trouble. These systems are essential not only for a comfortable ride, but also for safe, precise control on the road. At Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA, we help drivers pinpoint and resolve these issues before they lead to serious safety hazards or costly repairs.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common steering and suspension problems, what causes them, and how we fix them to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
Why Your Steering and Suspension Systems Matter
Your suspension system is responsible for absorbing shocks, supporting the weight of your vehicle, and keeping your tires in contact with the road. Meanwhile, the steering system allows you to control your vehicle’s direction with accuracy and stability. When either system begins to fail, it affects everything from how your car handles to how evenly your tires wear.
At Moore’s Garage, we’ve seen how neglected steering and suspension components can escalate into dangerous conditions. Staying proactive with diagnostics and maintenance is key to maintaining a smooth, controlled ride.
Signs Your Steering or Suspension Needs Attention
Knowing what to watch for can help you catch problems early. Here are some common symptoms:
- Vehicle pulling to one side when driving or braking
- Unusual noises such as clunking, squeaking, or creaking
- Steering wheel vibration or looseness
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Excessive bouncing after hitting a bump or pothole
- Difficulty steering or a noticeable delay in response
If you experience any of these issues, it’s time to visit Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA for a full steering and suspension inspection.
1. Worn-Out Shocks and Struts
The Problem:
Shocks and struts wear out over time, reducing your vehicle’s ability to absorb road impact. This leads to a rough, bouncy ride and increased wear on other components.
The Fix:
Our team inspects for oil leakage, sagging, and bounce response. If we detect worn-out struts or shocks, we replace them with high-quality parts designed for your specific make and model.
2. Damaged or Failing Ball Joints
The Problem:
Ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckles. When they wear out, you may hear clunking sounds or experience loose steering.
The Fix:
At Moore’s Garage, we check ball joints for excessive play and replace them if needed to restore safe steering geometry and suspension movement.
3. Loose or Worn Tie Rods
The Problem:
Tie rods link your steering rack to the wheels, allowing them to turn. A worn tie rod can cause poor steering response, vibration, and uneven tire wear.
The Fix:
We’ll inspect inner and outer tie rods for movement and damage. If they’re worn, we’ll replace them and perform a precise wheel alignment to ensure proper tracking.
4. Faulty Power Steering System
The Problem:
Modern vehicles use hydraulic or electric power steering to make turning easier. If you’re struggling to steer or hear whining noises, your power steering fluid could be low, or the pump may be failing.
The Fix:
Our technicians check the fluid level and condition, inspect hoses and pumps, and diagnose electrical components. We’ll top off or flush the fluid, repair leaks, or replace components as needed.
5. Control Arm or Bushing Wear
The Problem:
Control arms keep your wheels aligned with the frame. Over time, their bushings can degrade, causing instability, excessive play, or knocking sounds.
The Fix:
At Moore’s Garage, we inspect bushings for cracks or excessive movement. We can press in new bushings or replace the entire control arm for better handling and ride quality.
6. Steering Rack Problems
The Problem:
The steering rack converts the motion of your steering wheel into directional movement of the wheels. A worn rack can cause loose steering or fluid leaks.
The Fix:
We test for play in the steering rack and inspect for leaks or worn components. If repair isn’t feasible, we offer rack replacement services using trusted OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts.
7. Misaligned Wheels
The Problem:
Hitting a curb or pothole can throw your alignment off. Misalignment leads to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency.
The Fix:
Using state-of-the-art alignment tools, our Orangevale technicians adjust your camber, caster, and toe settings to factory specifications for optimal driving dynamics.
8. Broken Springs
The Problem:
Coil springs support the vehicle’s weight and help absorb shocks. If one breaks, the car may sit lower on one side or handle poorly.
The Fix:
We’ll replace damaged springs and inspect associated components for wear. Replacing both springs on the same axle is often recommended to maintain balance and safety.
Preventative Care: Keep Problems from Getting Worse
At Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA, we encourage drivers to include steering and suspension checks in their routine maintenance. Here’s what we recommend:
- Get a suspension inspection annually or every 15,000 miles.
- Schedule a wheel alignment check after hitting a pothole or curb.
- Have your steering components inspected during routine oil changes or tire service.
- Pay attention to changes in ride comfort or handling and don’t ignore early signs.
By addressing small issues early, you’ll avoid major repairs and keep your vehicle safe and comfortable to drive.
Trust Moore’s Garage with Your Steering & Suspension Needs
We know how important it is to feel confident behind the wheel. That’s why we offer thorough diagnostics, expert repairs, and honest recommendations at Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA. Whether you’re dealing with a squeaky suspension, unresponsive steering, or just want peace of mind before a long drive, we’re here to help you drive smoother and safer.
