The ability of your vehicle to void accidents depends on its steering and stability components working together. The Steering System & Suspension System of your vehicle are important both for safety reasons and also to give your vehicle a more comfortable ride. Though they are commonly referred to together, each system has a different function. Steering is performed by the driver to direct the vehicle while the suspension is a structural arrangement that supports the vehicle resulting in a comfortable and smooth ride.

The driver inputs a steering command via the steering wheel then the hydraulic portion of the system takes over. The power steering pump pressurized the hydraulic fluid causing the rack and pinion or steering gear box to move which is connected to linkage moving the wheels. All components of the steering system: fluid, hoses, linkage, tie rod ends, gear box and rack & pinion need to be in good working order so your vehicle steers effortlessly.

Suspension components are comprised of struts, shocks, ball joints, control arms and springs. Shocks and struts are one of the most overlooked areas by vehicle owners. Struts and shocks do lose their damping ability slowly over time. It is such a gradual performance loss that owners don’t notice a difference until that instance when they need to make a quick steering correction and their vehicle wants to sway from side to side and it is hard to control its momentum. It is extremely important to replace the struts & shocks when necessary to enhance the safety of your vehicle. Poor strut and shock performance will lead to premature tire wear and increase gas mileage. Bad struts & shocks will also shorten the life of other suspension and steering components.