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Like other parts of a car, the suspension and steering systems are crucial for handling and comfort. Unfortunately, their maintenance is often not a priority for some.
Damage to these systems may not immediately lead to a total breakdown. However, if not repaired, it can affect riding comfort and pose a danger at high speeds.
Car suspension and steering systems refer to a network of components on the undercarriage, especially those related to the wheel assemblies. These systems include interconnected components that make up the suspension.
Each component has its own function with different maintenance requirements. So, what components are in the suspension and steering systems? And how do we know if they have a problem? Continue reading to find out more.
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You can check the shock absorber mount that is located under the hood. This component functions as a cushion between the shock absorber and the car body. It is round-shaped and made of rubber and includes a bearing.
The rubber part of the mount can be visually checked for cracks. If it has cracks, it needs to be replaced.
Another way to check the mount is by turning the steering wheel right and left. A damaged mount will produce unusual noises. These noises originate from the worn-out bearing within the mount.
You can check the shock absorber for oil leakage. Lift the rubber boot underneath the spring. If you find oil leakage, you need to replace or repair it.
You can also inspect the shock absorber by performing the bounce test. Push down the car’s body repeatedly until the car bounces. If the shock absorbers are still good, the car will settle after one bounce. If the car bounces multiple times, it indicates that the shock absorbers are worn out.
It’s a bit difficult to visually inspect the wheel bearing because it is hidden behind other parts. However, it’s quite easy to check its functionality. First, use a jack and jack stand to get the tire off the ground.
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Rock the tire back and forth. If the bearing is damaged, you will feel a rough vibration or play in the wheel itself.
While distinctive, the three components constitute an integral part of the whole. These three affect car handling because they are connected to the steering wheel.
You can inspect these components by first jacking up the car. Wiggle the front tires side to side. Excessive play indicates damage to the components.
Additionally, damaged components can be indicated by a bulge in the steering rack boot, resulting in loose movement.
A ball joint is a component that connects the wheel to the chassis or, more precisely, the lower control arm. As the name suggests, a ball joint is a ball-shaped component. It cannot be directly seen as a rubber boot covers it. It’s located below the outer tie rod, but both components are not directly connected.
You can check the rubber boot for cracks or tears that cause grease to leak out and dirt to contaminate the ball joint.
You can also check its functionality by grabbing the top and bottom of the tire and rocking it in and out. For an easier operation, make sure you jack up the car first on the lower control arm.
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The sway bar link features a steel component mounted in a vertical or nearly vertical orientation, with its upper end attached to the shock absorber. The sway bar is a steel component attached to the bottom of the sway bar link in a horizontal orientation.
You can inspect the sway bar by gently stroking it using your hand to feel any excessive play.
This is usually caused by a damaged bushing (shaped like a ‘D’), which subsequently produces unusual noises. You can inspect the sway bar link by shaking it using your hand.
The lower control arm is made of robust steel, but it features two bushings, one on the front and one on the rear.
These bushings are susceptible to wear and tear. You can visually inspect the bushings for damage. You can also check for excessive play by using a pry bar on the lower control arm near the bushing.
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The components mentioned above are synonymous with the front suspension. However, you can apply similar procedures to the rear suspension. With that said, the rear suspension features a component called a trailing arm, which serves a function similar to the lower control arm, i.e., connecting the wheels to the chassis.
The trailing arm has bushings that need inspection. You can inspect the bushings using the same procedure for checking a ball joint, that is, by grabbing the top and bottom of the tire and rocking it in and out.
You will feel excessive play if the bushing is damaged. In addition, you can place a pry bar against the bushing to check for excessive play.
Those are some of the components of a car’s suspension and steering systems, along with how to inspect them. If you want to avoid all this hassle, renting a car at TRAC for your daily commute might be the answer.
TRAC is a subsidiary of PT Serasi Autoraya, or SERA, and part of the Astra Group. As a pioneer in vehicle rental services in Indonesia, TRAC offers comprehensive transportation solutions for individual and corporate clients.
You can rent a car for daily use at TRAC with a wide range of car type options, such as MPVs and SUVs. The options include Avanza, Xenia, Ertiga, Agya, Brio, Sigra, and Daihatsu Terios. You can also choose a hatchback/sedan, such as the Corolla Altis or BMW 5 Series.
For MPVs, Daihatsu Gran Max and Toyota Alphard/Vellfire are available. If you prefer SUVs, choose from models like the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero, BMW X6, and Toyota Land Cruiser.
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TRAC guarantees that all vehicles are in excellent condition and ready to use, including the latest models. With our 24-hour customer support, you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience.
Easily book your rental car on TRAC website main page or via the TRACtoGo app, available on Play Store and App Store.
For the latest information on TRAC services, visit TRAC official website at https://www.trac.astra.co.id/ and follow TRAC’s social media accounts @trac_astra on Instagram, TRAC-Astra Rent a Car on Facebook, and @TRACastra on X (formerly Twitter).