The steering column and suspension of every automobile ensure that it provides a smooth ride with no bumps and a comfortable turning radius. At Massey Automotive, we understand how frightening it can feel to realize that the steering has gone out or to feel the suspension stop functioning. Our steering and suspension repair services can help you stay safe on the road.
When you bring your car to us with steering or suspension problems, we put our more than 40 years of experience as mechanics to work on fixing the problem. Read on to learn more about steering and suspension repair, including how we diagnose the issue and how to get in touch with our team.
Signs of Suspension Problems
Sometimes, the signs of suspension issues don’t disable the steering wheel immediately or cause the suspension to erode your vehicle control. According to Mechanic Base, the early signs of suspension or steering issues show themselves in a bouncier, bumpier ride. Some vehicle owners experience rough rides on smooth roads and find their vehicles tough to control. Don’t delay taking the car or truck in for repairs because if the steering column completely locks up or the suspension goes out, you will lose control of your vehicle while operating it.
Diagnosing the Need for Steering and Suspension Repair
At Massey Automotive, we’re upfront about how tough diagnosing steering and suspension issues can be. Many causes can lead to shaky or bouncy suspension or a steering wheel that just won’t turn. Let’s consider the most common issues and how to avoid them.
- Wheel Misalignment: Every 6,000 miles, your vehicle’s wheels need to undergo realignment. If you feel the vehicle beginning to pull to one side while you drive it, then it needs to have its wheels aligned, a simple repair that typically costs less than $200.
- Shock Absorbers or Struts Replacement: Shock absorbers and struts wear out, so every 50,000 to 60,000 miles, have a mechanic check them. If they go bad, you lose control over the vehicle. Changing struts and shocks can cost up to $1,500.
- Spring Replacement: A reduction in vehicle stability and added bounce indicate the springs need replacing. It’s rare that all four springs go bad at one time, but you should have these coil springs replaced in pairs. These repairs can cost up to about $500.
- Ball Joint Replacement: A vehicle’s ball joints connect the tire and wheel to the other suspension parts. A vehicle may have front ball joints or front and rear ball joints. The damage could occur to one, all, or somewhere in between. The cost to repair this usually tops out at $1,200.
- Control Arm Replacement: The control arm hinges can become bent or go bad. These hinges attach to the wheels and car frame. Front-wheel-drive vehicles frequently experience lower control arm bushing problems. If your vehicle makes rattling noises and feels tough to control, then your control arm hinges probably went bad. This repair typically costs up to $750.
Call Us for Steering and Suspension Repair
In conclusion, replacing a control arm is a crucial part of maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. Whether you’re experiencing handling issues, steering problems, or suspension concerns, a worn-out or damaged control arm can compromise your safety on the road. By replacing the control arm, you can restore your vehicle’s stability, improve its handling, and prevent further damage to other components. Don’t overlook the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s control arms and ensuring that they are in good condition. Call Massey Automotive’s Marietta, Georgia, office at 770-746-3514 to set an appointment. Don’t drive with a damaged steering wheel or suspension. Instead, bring your vehicle to Massey Automotive for quick, thorough repairs.