Subaru Suspension Service

You likely stick to your schedule of oil changes, and you might be alert to when your vehicle needs a new air filter or new brakes, but you may struggle to identify other issues your vehicle might have or services it might need. Many people just wait until they hear a funny noise or they're experiencing a major problem with their vehicle to bring it in to a mechanic. But familiarizing yourself with your vehicle's components can help you be alert to signs of trouble before they grow into major problems, as can getting regular service checks.

The suspension system is often overlooked - usually because it is operating quietly in the background until there's a problem. Most people don't even know what it does until it stops doing it. Granite Subaru offers a suspension service to ensure that your system is in top working order so you never have to learn that lesson the hard way. We also offer prompt suspension repair to get you back on the road safely after your system has experienced problems. 

What Does the Suspension Do? 

Your vehicle's suspension system is composed of multiple parts, and they all work together to make your ride a more comfortable one and a safe one. The suspension system helps to cushion the shock every time your vehicle rides over a bump or dip in the road (or off the road), and it helps to keep your vehicle grounded. That means that you won't feel such a jolt when you hit something on the road, and all four of your vehicle's tires will stay firmly on the ground. The suspension system also helps to keep the wheels grounded when your vehicle is turning, particularly at high speeds. 

Signs that Your Suspension Needs Attention

It won't always be obvious when your suspension system is in need of attention. Your vehicle won't just start bouncing all over the road. The signs will be more subtle, and it's important that you pay attention to them so that the problems don't become more pronounced, leading to bigger and costlier repairs. 

One of the first signs of suspension trouble you may notice is a surprising one: It may take longer for you to come to a complete stop. Trouble with braking - as well as trouble with accelerating - is a sign that something is amiss with your suspension system. Don't just assume you need new brake pads. Talk to a qualified mechanic. 

Another sign you might have a problem with your suspension is that one corner of the vehicle is sitting lower than the others. That could indicate a broken spring or other problem. Give your vehicle a quick check before you climb inside. 

A more obvious sign of suspension trouble - and the one that brings in most people for service - is a strange noise coming from under the hood. You may notice squeaking, clanking, or even a slight knocking sound when you hit a bump. You may also notice noise when you turn or brake. It's important that you bring your vehicle in for a checkup as soon as possible if you notice these noises; you may need a suspension service.

Finally, if your suspension needs work, you are likely to notice excessive or unusual movement from your vehicle. Yes, there may be more bounce in your drive, but there may also just be a greater pull to one side or another as you are driving. These could be signs that your suspension needs attention. 

Call Granite Subaru right away if you notice any of these or other signs that you think might indicate that your suspension is having trouble. 

Components of Your Suspension

Your suspension system has many components, and any of them could be the culprit when trouble arises. Your mechanic will inspect them all if suspension trouble is suspected and will make the appropriate recommendations. The suspension system includes: 

• Shocks and struts. The strut is a structural component of the suspension system, while a shock is a hydraulic cylinder designed to cushion bounce. 
• Control arms. These connect the chassis of the car to the wheels, usually through ball joints.
• Suspension bushings. Bushings create padding and act as insulators at various points throughout the suspension system. When they fail, metal components can grind against other metal components, causing major problems. 
• Sway bar and sway bar bushings. The sway bar provides a counterforce during turns, helping the vehicle to stay level and grounded. The bushings act as padding and insulation. If either fails, it can mean big trouble for your vehicle. 

Of course, your tires, wheels, and brakes are all part of your suspension system, as well, and if any of these are worn down or unbalanced, they can cause problems for your suspension and other vehicle components. 

Suspension Service

Suspension service can include a number of things, depending on what is giving your vehicle trouble. A basic alignment can go a long way toward protecting your suspension system, by ensuring that your wheels remain in the proper positioning. 

If you are having a problem with the larger components of your suspension, such as the shocks or struts, the repair might be as simple as replacing the bushings. Or you may need to replace the shocks and struts entirely. 

When you bring your vehicle for a service at Granite Subaru, our mechanics will inspect it thoroughly to find the exact cause of the trouble. You may have a problem with just one suspension component or with several. We will also look for signs of wear or impending trouble with neighboring components to stave off any future problems. We will then service or repair whatever components are in need.

The experienced mechanics at Granite Subaru can also help you develop a maintenance schedule to ensure that your suspension system stays in top shape and avoids any major issues, including a regular alignment and brake service. Call us today to schedule a service or to talk with one of our mechanics about developing a service plan for your vehicle.