The Trainer #46: How to inspect the steering and suspension system

Oct. 1, 2015

The October 2015 edition of The Trainer shares tips on properly inspecting these systems and how to share your findings with your customers.

Pete Meier

In the September 2015 edition of The Trainer, we shared just how small the typical tire contact patch is and how important it is to the overall performance of the vehicle that the tires be properly serviced and inspected. Running a close second in insuring vehicle stability and control is the steering and suspension system – our topic for this month’s video.

These two systems work closely together to provide stability, control and a comfortable ride for the vehicle occupants. The suspension is primarily responsible for keeping that tiny contact patch on the road and controlling sway, roll, and dive as the vehicle changes speed or direction. The steering system provides the driver a means to alter direction smoothly and precisely. Faults in either can cause the other to be less capable of performing its job, making it critical that any inspection of one include the other.

When a vehicle comes to you for service, even minor maintenance, do you make it a habit to check for excessive play in the front end? How about the rear wheels? Do you know what role they play in vehicle stability? Do you know the differences in inspecting a conventional steering/suspension system versus a MacPherson strut system?

For the October 2015 edition of The Trainer, we talked to industry experts to learn what common mistakes are being made in the service and repair of these two safety-critical systems. We’ll also share what we learned about properly inspecting these systems and how to share your findings with your customers. Check it out!

Watch more videos from The Trainer series.

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About the Author

Pete Meier | Creative Director, Technical | Vehicle Repair Group

Pete Meier is the former creative director, technical, for the Vehicle Repair Group with Endeavor Business Media. He is an ASE certified Master Technician with over 35 years of practical experience as a technician and educator, covering a wide variety of makes and models. He began writing for Motor Age as a contributor in 2006 and joined the magazine full-time as technical editor in 2010. Pete grew the Motor Age YouTube channel to more than 100,000 subscribers by delivering essential training videos for technicians at all levels.

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