Suspension Services

Suspension service offered at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists in IL

Your Guide to Vehicle Suspension Maintenance

Your suspension system improves your ride quality and handling performance by absorbing the impact from bumps in the road. It’s an intricate system made up of shock-absorbing parts, including springs, shocks, struts, and other components. In addition to providing vehicle ride comfort, regular suspension maintenance with Hi-Tech Auto Specialists is important for your safety on the road. 

What Is a Suspension System?

It’s easy to believe that most roads are fairly smooth from inside your vehicle The reality is that even recently paved roads can be uneven and have bumps and potholes. The tires and suspension components in your vehicle are linked, so it protects the main cabin and the people inside from harsh jolts and excessive vibration. 

The body of a vehicle is mounted to the chassis — the framework and underpart of the vehicle. The suspension system is part of the chassis and includes the following suspension components: 


  • Springs to absorb impact and control the height and load between the suspension and the chassis
  • Shock absorbers to help control impact from the springs and keep tires in contact with the surface of the road
  • Struts which include the springs and shock absorbers
  • Control arms to connect the frame and front wheels 
  • Ball joints to help the vehicle turn right and left and allow the control arms to move up and down 


All of these components work together in a particular arrangement — called suspension geometry — based on the make and model of your vehicle. The exact components in your suspension system will also vary depending on whether your vehicle is front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 


Signs You Might Need Suspension Repair 


With the proper suspension maintenance and care, your system can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, other factors such as driving conditions and habits can affect whether you need a suspension upgrade sooner. In addition to mileage, here are some signs you should watch for. If you notice any of them, bring your vehicle in to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for suspension troubleshooting. 


Shaky Steering Wheel


Part of a comfortable ride is smooth steering. Your suspension system works with your steering system, so a shaky steering wheel may indicate a problem with the suspension system. You should also come in if you notice your steering wheel pulling left or right while you’re driving


Excess Tire Wear


Because the suspension system is designed to absorb road bumps, when it’s not working, the tires have to take on a larger share of the burden. Uneven wear, such as cupping and ridges in your tires can indicate a problem with the suspension system rather than tires that need to be replaced. 


Leaking Around Shocks and Struts


If you notice a leak around your tires, it could be coming from your shocks and struts. Leaking fluid is rarely a good sign, and it could indicate suspension problems.

 

Vehicle Bounces After a Speed Bump


If you’re not going too fast, a speed bump shouldn’t be a jarring experience. A speed bump is designed to slow you down, but your vehicle shouldn’t bounce after you pass over one. However, if your shock absorbers are worn, they won’t properly absorb the bumps, and you’ll notice your vehicle is bouncing more than it should.


You can also check for excess bouncing by pushing down on your rear bumper while your vehicle is parked. It should return easily without extra motion. If it doesn’t, bring it to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for a suspension inspection. 


Clunking Sounds


If you listen carefully, your vehicle will often “talk” to you through unusual noises. A clunking sound may mean trouble with your suspension system, particularly if you notice it after your vehicle has been jarred by going over a speed bump or pothole. 


Trust Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for All of Your Suspension Issues

Whether you need suspension modifications or suspension tuning, at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we can handle it. Our expert mechanics have been serving Oak Lawn & Westchester, IL for many years. We take pride in serving our community with quality workmanship at an affordable price. If you notice any problems with your suspension system, stop by to see us at 9740 Southwest Hwy, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 or 10139 Roosevelt Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 or call us at 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855.