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How to Check for Loose or Worn Suspension Components

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
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Flashlight Floor Jack
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Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $0.00 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $158.10 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Open your hood and locate the top of your suspension strut mounts/shock towers. edit step - submit photo
2
 
With your vehicle in park, have an assistant push down on the fender to simulate driving over bumps. edit step - submit photo
3
 
Inspect the upper shock mounts on the inside of the engine compartment and underneath the wheel well for damage. edit step - submit photo
4
 
Close your hood and secure your vehicle on a level surface, making sure your vehicle will not roll or lean when jacked up. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Inspect the vehicle ride height (coil springs, struts, or torsion bars). Some owner’s manuals will have ride height specifications.  The left and right side measurements should be equal. edit step - submit photo
6
 
Using a floor jack, lift up the front of your vehicle. edit step - submit photo
Jack lifting vehicle up by pinch weld
7
 
Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. The pinch welds or the frame rails are the two best locations. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working. edit step - submit photo
Jack stands supporting the vehicle from both sides
8
 
Inspect all suspension grease boots for damage and make sure the boots are full of grease. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Inspect sway bar mounts and end linkage for loose, bent, or missing components. Any damaged linkage will need to be replaced. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Inspect the control arms for damage to the bushings and ball joints. Bushing kits and ball joints are available for replacement; however, replacing the control arm assembly is also an option. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Inspect the steering rack, steering box, steering column, and the inner tie rod linkage. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Inspect the outer tie rod ends for excessive play at the connection to the steering knuckle. You will also want to inspect the tie rod boots for damage. edit step - submit photo
13
 
Replace the necessary suspension system components and take the vehicle to a certified technician for proper alignment. edit step - submit photo
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