How does a car's steering and suspension work?
Stephen Wright, 2 years ago
5 min read
- Advice
- howdoesitwork
Suffering from problems with your steering and suspension? We’re here to help thanks to our comprehensive steering and suspension maintenance guide
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How does car steering work?
There are two basic types of steering systems; Standard Mechanical and Rack and Pinion steering.
The major difference between the two is that the Rack and Piston system has fewer parts and pivot points, which results in more accurate control and higher responsiveness.
However, this system has a higher chance of leakage which means the steering rack assembly typically requires replacement more often than Standard Mechanical steering.
How does car suspension work?
Suspension is essentially the shock absorbing part of a car which allows the wheels to remain in firm contact with the road while maintaining traction, it also helps provide passengers with a comfortable ride.
The suspension in your car is mainly comprised of springs and shock absorbers which come in all shapes and sizes depending on the vehicle.
Suspension removes a huge amount of vibration and bumps from a car as well as internal noise, so it will be noticeable if something is broken!
Even if your car drives smoothly and comfortably it is always a good idea to have the steering and suspension checked at least once a year.
There are many forces being applied to your steering and suspension as you drive along which means the two systems can be subject to stress from every angle. This means there are many areas which could be affected by driving.
Steering and suspension maintenance tips
These simple tips will help you understand what is going wrong with your car if it is displaying certain issues.
Remember, we can help you receive a range of bespoke quotes from garages for steering and suspension repair in your area.
Average cost of a steering rack by manufacturer
| Average Cost of Steering Rack by Manufacturer | |
|---|---|
| Audi | £505.01 |
| BMW | £398.78 |
| Citroen | £346.88 |
| Ford | £344.83 |
| Mercedes-Benz | £398.11 |
| Peugeot | £268.46 |
| Renault | £322.10 |
| Toyota | £509.97 |
| Vauxhall | £373.04 |
| Volkswagen | £315.05 |
| Volvo | £380.71 |
FAQs
Why does my car lean or pull to one side?
Tyres are worn out more on one side
Steering linkage loose or worn out
One brake is dragging/isn’t released
Wheels aren’t aligned
Tyre pressure uneven
Why does my steering wheel vibrate?
Warped or damaged brake rotors/ drums
Loose wheel lug nuts
Out of balance wheel and tyre assemblies
Loose steering linkage
Bent or damaged wheels
Worn/damaged tyres
Why is my car wheel hard to turn?
Low tyre pressure
Wheels out of alignment
Power steering box/rack/power steering pump damaged
Low fluid in power steering
Power steering drive belt damaged
Steering gear requires lubrication
Why does my car make a noise when turning a corner?
Steering belt damaged/loose
Fluid in the power steering has air which needs to be bled from the system
Low fluid in power steering
Loose/damage steering mounts
My does my car have loose steering?
Steering linkage is worn out or loose
Steering box needs to be turned
Why is my car bouncing?
Worn out shock absorbers
Broken or bent shock mounts
My car has no power steering
No fluid in the power steering system
Faulty power steering pump
Broken steering belt
Contaminated fluid in power steering
Low tyre pressure
My car is wandering from side to side
Weight within the car is unevenly distributed
Wheels out of alignment
Weak springs
Loose steering linkage
My car steering wheel is shaking
Steering drive belt damaged/loose
Low fluid in power steering
Engine idling too low
Power steering linkage rubbing against something
Seeing any of the above symptoms while driving your car?
It is absolutely vital that you pay attention to your car and make sure to keep this information in mind. If you ignore the signs that your car is showing, you are taking a safety risk. If your car is showing ANY of these signs, you need to have the issue addressed immediately.
