Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Does Suspension Impact Brake Wear?

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It’s estimated that the average car on the road today has over 30,000 parts. And while it’s not important to know every part, you should learn the basic systems and how they operate. This helps you stay on top of the condition of your car, and can alert you to when things go wrong.

Let’s start by discussing the braking system and your suspension, and how the two work together.

How car brakes work

A car’s braking system is fairly simple to understand. When you press down on the brake pedal, the car slows down or stops. If you’ve ever ridden a bicycle, you know how the process works.

The brake pedal is connected to a part called the master cylinder with a metal rod. The master cylinder chamber is filled with brake fluid, which is what makes the brake system work. Brake lines are connected from the master cylinder to the brake calipers, which give passageway for the brake fluid to flow.Does Suspension Impact Brake Wear?

When you press down on the brake pedal, the metal rod moves up and down, compressing the brake fluid in the master cylinder. As pressure builds, it moves through the brake lines and creates the force the brake system needs to operate. More force on the brake pedal pushes more pressure in the brake line, and ultimately more force for stopping the car.

When you take your foot off the brake pedal, it releases the pressure via spring action. It moves back to resting position, releasing the brakes at each wheel and allowing the car to move freely.

How steering and suspension work

The steering and suspension work together to keep your car under control.

The steering system gives you directional control over your vehicle. The suspension system supports the weight of your vehicle and gives it a smooth ride, while providing stability for the current road conditions. Together, they keep your car under control and give you both drivability and handling.

If you’ve ever had a problem with your steering, you’ve probably heard the term “rack and pinion.” This is one of the most common steering systems used for many cars on the road today. As you turn your steering wheel, it’s rotating on a pinion. This movement rotates a rack, which controls the direction of your wheels from one angle to another. Think of the rack and pinion as a gear shift that work together. As you rotate the steering wheel, the pinion catches in the circular gear connected to the rack, giving you a turning radius.

While rack and pinion is one of the most popular, it isn’t the only format. Other popular types of steering design include parallelogram steering, which includes power steering pumps, Pitman arms, idler arms, and a center link. They have joints and levers work together to form the modern day steering and suspension system.

Ultimately, no matter what type of steering and suspension system you have, the goal is to provide you with a smooth ride.

How brakes and steering and suspension work together

It should be fairly easy to see how the two systems work together. The steering and suspension provide stability to keep you safe on the road, while the braking system gives you the control you need to adjust to traffic conditions.

If your suspension is off, your car won’t handle well when braking. It may nosedive. It can cause you to swerve. All of which can cause you to pound on the brakes, wearing them out before their time.

Does your car have problems with the suspension? Have you noticed any of these signs?

Your car rides roughly

Every system in your vehicle is designed to tell you in advance that it’s reaching end of life. When the shocks and struts of your suspension system are wearing out, you’ll start to feel every bump on the road. Have you noticed a bounce when you ride? That’s an indication your suspension system is having problems.

Your car drifts or pulls as you turn

When a car’s suspension system fails, it starts to drift or pull as you make a turn. This means the shocks are no longer doing their job to keep your car stable as it moves through turns. This can increase your risk of rollover if you take the turn too fast.

Your car nose dives as you stop

When shocks wear out, you’ll likely feel the car nose dive as you apply the brakes. This can reduce the stopping power of your brakes, meaning it will take more distance to safely come to a stop.

Your tires will wear unevenly

Glance at your tire tread from time to time. If you see uneven wear, it could be a sign your suspension system isn’t doing its job. It applies pressure on the tires in different ways, creating bald spots in certain places.

Your shocks are oily

If you take a look under your vehicle, or glance at the ground as you drive away, do you notice wet spots? It a greasy, oily liquid appears where your shocks and struts were lined up, it could be they are leaking fluid. Anytime fluid leaks, it’s a sign the system isn’t doing its job at full capacity.

Try the bounce test

One of the easiest ways you can determine if your suspension system isn’t working is to apply the bounce test. With the car in park, press down on the hood of the car, then release. Do the same thing on the trunk. If the car bounces as you release it, it’s a sign your suspension system is wearing out.

Do you have a problem with your brakes, steering or suspension system? We can help.

Your brakes and suspension system are designed to help your vehicle function properly, while giving you a safe, smooth ride. Letting either system continue to operate at a less-than-optimal rate puts you at risk as well as costs you money as more damage continues to accrue.

Stop by today and let assess your vehicle’s performance. Together we can help keep you on the road longer, and enjoy the ride.

5 Signs Your Shocks and Struts Need Replacing

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Don’t you just love the Colorado roads right now? When the snow clears away for a day or two, you still feel like you’re off-roading it down the highway. It’s a game of “how to avoid the potholes”, and all-too-often, the potholes win.

When you hit one, you cringe. You can feel the impact ripple through you and your vehicle. This can take its toll on how well your car handles.

A car’s suspension system is designed to hold up the weight of the vehicle, and absorb the impact of the road while providing the occupants a smooth ride. One of the critical components of the suspension system are shocks and struts.5 Signs Your Shocks and Struts Need Replacing

Both shocks and struts curb a car’s tendency to bounce while moving. Every time you start, stop, turn corners, or hit bumps in the road, it’s shocks and struts that create a smooth riding experience.

What are shocks and struts? What’s the difference?

Before we talk about possible problems with your vehicle’s shocks and struts, it’s important to understand what they are.

In many cases, the terms shocks and struts are used interchangeably, but they do provide two separate functions.

As a part of the suspension system, every vehicle has a combination of springs, and either shocks or struts. Springs are what support the weight of the vehicle to cushion the ride. This prevents the car’s passengers from experiencing harsh jolts as it rides on rough and uneven roads.

Shocks, also known as shock absorbers, do what their name implies: they absorb the shock of the road. Shocks aren’t a crucial piece of the suspension system; you could, in theory, remove them and still be able to drive. However, they are built into a vehicle to provide comfort and stability no matter what the conditions of the road are like.

Struts are an integral part of a vehicle’s suspension system. They play a key role in absorbing the roughness of the road. MacPherson struts are the most common struts on today’s vehicles. They combine the spring and strut together into one serviceable part. However, depending on the vehicle you drive, the two might be separate. In that case, the strut acts as a connecting point between the spring and the vehicle.

How do I know if my shocks and struts are bad?

Like other parts of your vehicle, shocks and struts have warning signs that they are failing. But they aren’t components you’ll replace on a regular basis. They are engineered to last anywhere from 50,000 to 90,000 miles or more, depending on how you drive.

Still, you can’t miss the signs that your shocks and struts are starting to fail. Have you experienced any of these signs?

Nose diving – this is probably one of the easiest signs to recognize; you’ll see this portrayed on television a lot. Cars stay level because of shocks and struts. If they aren’t working the way they are designed, every time you step on the brake pedal, your car will dip forward, with the nose diving towards the pavement in the process. There is also the possibility of the rear of your car bouncing down when you accelerate; this is known as squats.

Bouncing – the shocks and struts absorb the roughness of the road. However, if you notice your car bouncing up and down with each bump and you can feel it in the way you move up and down in your seat, your shocks and struts have a problem that should be serviced as soon as possible.

Tire bouncing – if the shocks and struts aren’t absorbing the impact of the road, the tires can take on the stress. If they aren’t connecting with the pavement as designed, they can wear before their time.

Fluid leaks – shocks and struts contain hydraulic fluid. As they wear, they can start leaking. If you notice what looks like a leak by your tires, bring it in to be serviced as soon as you can.

Handling problems – pay attention to the way your car handles no matter what the road conditions are. This will help you determine when things start to go wrong. Problems with shocks and struts can make your car shift from side to side even when the weather isn’t there to affect it. You should never feel a swaying motion as you drive.

Can I test for bad shocks and struts?

Still not sure if it’s your shocks and struts going bad? Luckily, there is a test you can perform to determine if your shocks and struts are in good working condition. It’s called the bounce test, and it works like this.

Move to the front or rear of your car. Push down as hard as you can, and then pull your hands away. If your car doesn’t bounce, your shocks and struts are fine. A bounce suggests that the shocks and struts are starting to wear, or a problem already exists. This is your sign that it’s time to get your vehicle serviced and have your shocks and struts replaced.

Your suspension system needs regular maintenance too

As a frequent driver, you’re probably in the habit of basic maintenance items. You bring it in for an oil change every few months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. You wash it and add windshield washer fluid seasonally.  You get new tires as the tread wears down.

Even if your vehicle isn’t showing any signs that the shocks and struts are going bad, it’s a good idea to have one of our mechanics evaluate your suspension system on an annual basis. This of it as cheap insurance to ensure your car is in good working order, and will keep you and your car’s occupants safe and secure, ready to enjoy the ride.

Shocks and struts are not the same, and are not interchangeable components of your vehicle. Whether they are structurally integrated together or are separate parts, it’s important to have both in good working condition to have a safe ride.

Are your shocks and struts in good condition?

Why Is My Steering Wheel Hard To Turn?

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Imagine cruising down the highway on your way to work. You put on your turn signal, hoping to merge onto the exit, and turn left or right to reach your final destination. The only trouble is your steering wheel isn’t cooperating. You tug at it, push it, try to control it with all your might. Why is your steering wheel hard to turn?

When your steering system fails, it impacts the performance and safety of your vehicle. If you can’t move spur of the moment, adjust no matter what happens on the road in front of you, you’re putting your life, the lives of the other occupants in your car, and all those around you at risk.

At the first sign of trouble, act quickly.Why Is My Steering Wheel Hard To Turn?

Getting to the root cause of your steering wheel problems

The steering wheel problem mentioned above isn’t uncommon. If you drive, at some point you’ll find yourself in a situation where you have trouble controlling the steering of your vehicle. If it suddenly becomes stiff and hard to turn, your steering column didn’t suddenly break. Instead, it’s quite possibly an easy fix you can troubleshoot and repair quickly.

Most newer cars today use what’s called rack and pinion steering. It contains two main parts: the pump, and the rack and pinion unit.

The pump provides power steering fluid to the rack and pinion unit. As a driver moves the steering wheel, the power steering control valve allows fluid to flow into the piston, giving the driver the ability to turn the wheel. As the wheel turns, the pinion moves against the rack, pushing it in the direction the driver wishes to go.

Before power steering, this gear shifting and movement took more power from the driver. It was a more strenuous ride, as more of the power relied on the driver controlling the turns. With power steering, the process has improved, making it easy for a driver to control steering in all kinds of conditions. If you have to make a split-second decision, it’s nice to know that your vehicle gives you the option to react quickly.

When your steering wheel is hard to turn, there are a number of things that could be wrong.

Your power steering fluid is low

Your car is filled with different types of fluids to keep it operating the way it should. Power steering fluid provides fluidity to the rack and pinion gears. Without it, it will be difficult to move. If your car is low on power steering fluid, refilling it can be a temporary fix. If it’s low, you’ll have to get to the root cause of why it’s disappearing out of the power steering system. There’s a good chance one of the hoses or connectors is loose, cracked, or broken, allowing the fluid to disappear out of the system.

It might not be your steering wheel at all

Cars are finely tuned machines that work well when all systems are operating correctly. When something goes wrong, all systems are thrown off balance. If you’re having trouble steering your car, take notice of when it occurs and what it does to your vehicle. It might not be your steering system at all. In some cases, if your tires aren’t filled to their proper levels, it can make the steering process more difficult. When was the last time you had your tire pressure checked? Make sure they are inflated according to your car’s make and model guidelines.

It could be hoses, belts, or connectors

Like every system in your car, the steering system is made up of many different parts. It has hoses and belts that connect pieces together, connectors that hold everything in place. If any one of these fails, your power steering system will act up, making your steering wheel difficult to turn.

Between the steering column and the rack and pinion shaft is a thick rubber piece that absorbs the shocks of the road. This rubber can wear out over time.

The steering wheel and the rack and pinion shaft sit at angles to each other. Couplers are used to keep these angles in perfect alignment. Of course, anything created to work at an angle has the potential to go out of alignment if the angle isn’t correct. If this coupler fails, it can throw the entire system out of whack.

The power steering system is controlled by two central hoses. Both are attached to the rack and pinion and the power steering pump through brass fittings, secured by hose clamps. This system is constantly under pressure by carrying power steering fluid to the appropriate parts, and by the movement of the vehicle against the road.

It might be a bad steering rack

The rack is connected to your power steering system through a series of shafts and u-joints. Even under normal driving conditions, the rack will wear down over time. If your steering wheel is stiff from the moment you turn on your vehicle, it’s most likely a problem with the steering rack. The wheel will gradually loosen as you drive and it heats up, giving the lubricant a chance to move in and start to work. You can keep driving with this condition for a while, but keep in mind the problem only escalates as the steering rack continues to deteriorate.

It can also be a power steering pump failure

Just like other pieces of equipment in your car, your power steering pump is designed to last for thousands of miles. It has a major role in creating the right amount of pressure in the power steering system. When the pump comes under pressure, is damaged, or simply wears out, it won’t do its job the way it should. When it reaches the point of failure, it won’t cause the system to stop working. But it does start to give signs it’s time for replacement. The steering point often makes noise to signal it’s time for replacement. Your steering wheel will become harder and harder to turn. If you notice these changes in your vehicle, it’s time to have it serviced and replaced.

What’s the easiest way to ensure your car is always running the way it should? It starts with a regular maintenance schedule. Check all fluids at regular intervals. Bring your car in for diagnosis whenever you think your car might have a problem. If your steering wheel is hard to turn, it’s signaling you it needs attention. Stay safe, and let’s solve the problem to get you back on the road again.

What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Broken Struts

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Every car, truck, SUV, or crossover has a suspension system. It’s the parts of a car that hold your vehicle off the ground, protects passengers and cargo, and gives the vehicle its ability to make turns as you drive around.

The suspension system contains parts you are very aware of – your tires and wheels. It also contains things you probably don’t pay much attention to – springs, shocks and struts.

Every part on your car starts wearing out the moment you drive it off the showroom floor. And as this wear happens, your car won’t perform the way it once did. You might notice it doesn’t turn as sharp as it once did. You might feel as if your vehicle is a little more squirmy on rainy roads.What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Broken Struts

That’s your car warning you that something is wrong. And if you don’t act quickly, a bigger problem is about to materialize.

What is a car strut?

Your car’s suspension system wouldn’t exist without struts. Stuts are the part that hold your vehicle off the ground. Without them, it would fall to the pavement.

Sturts lock together many different parts of the suspension system. They connect to the coil spring and shock absorber. They connect to the steering mechanism. They provide support to help shock absorbers support the weight of the vehicle and give it the smooth ride you expect.

You’ll often find the terms “shocks and struts” used interchangeably. But there are subtle differences. The only job a shock has is to stabilize the car. It keeps it from bouncing around. The car would still be able to drive if the shocks went out.

Is it safe to drive a car with bad struts?

When your struts wear down, they do more than give you an uncomfortable ride. They also present safety risks that can increase your chances of an accident. Worn struts can increase the amount of time it takes to stop your vehicle, especially in adverse weather conditions. If the streets are wet from snow or rain, you’ll need more distance for stopping with a worn out strut.

Struts also help stabilize the car. Every time you make a turn, your car’s struts are there to provide stability for the action. While that might not seem that important when you’re making a right hand turn into your neighborhood, increase the speed, and try a hairpin turn at highway speeds. That puts you, your riders, and the other vehicles around you at increased risk.

Of course, struts aren’t something that wear out quickly. You don’t have to replace them on a regular schedule like you do an oil change or new wiper blades. It depends on several things, including the model and make of your car, plus the amount of wear and tear you put on your car every day. Someone who drives up and down the mountain for work and play every day is going to be different from someone who drives two minutes to work and back.

Under normal conditions, you might be able to get 75,000 to 100,000 miles before you notice a change. With heavier use, you might start noticing problems at 50,000. Like most parts on your vehicle, the answer to “when I should replace it” is “it depends.”

What are the symptoms of bad struts?

Struts won’t wear out overnight. Instead, it’s a gradual process over time. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to how your car drives, especially as it ages.

Every time you hit a bump in the road, or hit a pothole that makes you cringe from the jarring effect, your struts wear down a little at a time. And eventually, they start talking back.

Here are a few warning signs that your struts need replacing.

The nose of the car dips when braking. Have you ever punched on the brakes when someone cuts you off, only to feel the nose of the car dips down more than it should? That’s a problem with the struts.

Highway speeds are a little more intimidating. Do you feel that shimmy when you reach certain speeds? Have you pressed your car from 60 to 70, only to bring it back down because of the shake? That’s your struts talking. They aren’t providing the same stability they once did.

The tires wear unevenly. When the struts are going out, they’ll apply different amounts of pressure to the tires. You’ll see the tread wearing away in unique ways, giving each tire an uneven wear pattern.

The tires bounce with every dip in the road. Every time you hit a bump, it will feel as if the car is bouncing to recover. You might also hear a clunking noise along with it.

You’ll notice a pull when you take turns, especially at higher speeds. The car will feel wobbly going into the turn and recovering back to driving straight.

You may also notice fluid leaks. When this happens, it’s a sign that the seal has broken and the fluids that make your suspension system work is escaping. The more the system operates without proper fluid levels, the more damage may be done to your suspension system.

How do I buy new struts?

If you’re not sure if your struts need replacing, the best place to start is by taking your car in for servicing. Our goal is to ensure your car is safe to drive. We’ll give you all of your options and help you make the right decision for your vehicle.

Like everything in life, you get what you pay for. Adding new struts to your vehicle isn’t a DIY project.

Ensure you purchase quality, brand name struts. You have choices, depending on how you drive. Some will be a little stiffer for better performance, something that may be important if you like feeling the curves of the road. Others are better for comfort, and will ensure you enjoy the ride.

It’s also important to discuss other parts of the suspension system while making a decision about your struts. The struts are just one piece of the suspension system. If your struts are worn out, there’s a good chance other parts are as well, like the bearing mounts or the shock boots.

Whatever you do, don’t neglect your struts. Stop by as soon as you have questions about their safety. It can help give you a better ride, and get you back on the road, enjoying the experience once again.

The Most Damaged Suspension System Car Parts When You Hit Potholes

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You’ve probably heard the joke that in Colorado, there are four seasons: fall, winter, spring, and construction. Yes, summer is a great time to get out of the house and enjoy lots of sunny days and warm weather. But driving around town can leave you a little agitated at best.

It’s hard to miss the number of potholes that lurk all over town. They may start out small, but they quickly grow into a car-eating disaster.The Most Damaged Suspension System Car Parts When You Hit Potholes

Potholes are caused by the expansion and contraction of water. As cracks occur in the pavement, water leaks down underneath. On cold days it freezes. Think of it like an ice cube; it moves from a puddle of water to a solid, frozen shape. That pushes and shoves the pavement in new directions.

Then on warm days, it thaws. The water moves to new locations, penetrating even more of the uneven pavement. It flows into new cracks, and takes up more space.

Over and over this occurs, all winter long.

Of course, that’s not the only thing that helps a pothole grow. Especially on a busy road, cars and trucks drive over it, pounding the pavement in all sorts of directions. The weight makes the material weaker, breaks it off, and causes it to move in new ways. The more this occurs, the larger the pothole grows.

Colorado has thousands of miles of paved roads weaving in and out of some of the most beautiful country in the world. If you haven’t had the chance to drive across this state, try picking one from this list and enjoy the breathtaking views.

As you round each corner and move up and down the hills, try and avoid the potholes at all costs. Brace yourself when you simply can’t. And understand the impact each pothole has on your car parts, the damage it creates on your vehicle’s suspension system. By being aware, you can learn when it’s time to bring your car into our shop and get the suspension fixed before further damage can occur.

What a pothole can do to your car

When your car hits a pothole, it’s usually the pothole that will win. It can damage your tires and wheels, cause alignment issues, or even cause premature wear to your shocks. When you hit a pothole, it can damage:

  • Your wheels – it can bend or even crack wheel rims
  • Your tires – flat tires, uneven wear, and weakened belts and cords
  • Your alignment – ever noticed your car pulling to one side or the other?
  • Your suspension system – it can impact shocks, struts, springs, and more
  • Your exhaust system – cracks, leaks, and holes can put you at risk

That damage adds up to quite a lot – according to AAA auto club, over $3 billion a year.

How do you know if your car has been damaged by a pothole?

Here in Colorado, it’s hard to avoid potholes. But pay attention to the ones that make you cringe and groan. You know when you hit an especially bad one. It rattles the entire car. And once this happens, be on the lookout for these things:

  • Do you have to turn your steering wheel so it’s crooked to stay straight on the road? It’s a sign the steering component is bent.
  • Do you notice excessive bouncing and loss of control as you drive? It’s a sign of steering and suspension issues.
  • Have you noticed pulling to one side or uneven tire wear? It’s a sign of problems with your alignment.
  • Are there bulges on tire sidewalls or dents in the wheel? It’s symptoms of tire damage.
  • Do you notice a vibration in your steering wheel? It’s a sign of a bent rim.
  • Do you find fluids underneath your car when you pull away? It could be a signal of a line or hose that’s cracked, wiggled loose, or no longer functioning.
  • Is your exhaust system noisier than normal? It could be a result of damage from the undercarriage of your car scraping because of the pothole.

What if you think you’ve sustained damage after hitting a pothole?

Or course, it depends on what the damage is. Some damage is more dire than others. If you don’t come in with some issues, it can put you at risk for more serious damage, or for an accident.

You should never take your car for granted. You should always take the approach of “listen, sense, and look.”

Every time you start your car, listen for sounds that weren’t there before. Do you hear a new rattle? Do you hear a new clank? Each of these sounds is trying to tell you that something is wrong with your car. Do a little sleuthing and find out exactly where it’s coming from. Even if you can’t determine the exact cause, it will help you be able to talk more clearly with your mechanic when you bring your vehicle in.

Gain a good sense for what your car feels like every time you take it out on the road. Learn how the steering feels as you make turns and keep your car on the road. Do you notice different movements, especially at varying speeds? Do things change on the highway? Do things change when you come to a stop? Note these differences and describe them when you come into the shop.

You should also make a periodic overview of your car, both inside and out. Just like a pilot makes a full check before he pulls the plane out and flies it to the next destination, so too should you do a thorough investigation once in awhile, to ensure everything looks okay. Glance under the car, do you see part of the exhaust system hanging free? Do the tires look deflated or flat? When you pop the hood, does something appear to be out of place?

You don’t need a certificate in auto mechanics to notice when something is wrong with your car. And considering how important your suspension system is to the way your car behaves on the road, it’s one of the most important systems to watch.

How many potholes have you hit this year? Isn’t it time to make sure your suspension system is fully working, and won’t cause you problems down the road?

What If I Drive With A Broken Suspension?

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For many people, a car is simply a tool that helps them go from point A to point B. They get in, drive it, and expect it to be ready when they want to hop in once again.

But a car is actually an intricate set of systems all working together to keep you safe and secure while you move throughout your busy day. You rarely think about what could go wrong until it actually does.What If I Drive With A Broken Suspension?

Often, people don’t ask questions like “what if I drive with a broken suspension” until they encounter a problem with their cars. At that point, it’s a little too late to be able to do anything more than call a tow truck and pay the costs.

Every automobile on the road today is designed with a suspension system. The suspension system is a collection of parts designed to keep your car off the ground and in motion as it moves from here to there. It keeps you comfortable as you hit bumps. It keeps you secure as you move through turns and corners.

Every piece of your suspension system plays a part in the process. If one part goes out, it impacts the entire process.

Your suspension system consists of:

  • Wheels
  • Tires
  • Springs
  • Shocks
  • Steering system
  • All the parts that connect the system together

Like all parts, each is designed to last for only so long. From the moment you drive off the showroom floor, wear and tear occurs to each part a little differently. It depends on driving conditions. It also depends on your driving habits.

Over time, it starts to falter. It doesn’t perform the way it once did. You start noticing problems. The squeaks. The clicks. Or maybe it feels like you traded your luxury car in for a truck. You feel every bump in the road.

Parts wear down over time. But in some cases, it goes a step further. You face a broken suspension system instead of one that’s just in need of repair. What then? Is it safe to drive? Do you need to call a tow truck?

In most cases, a broken suspension means immediate replacement. It needs repair before you can drive. But it also depends on what part brakes.

Wheels

Wheel system failures are almost always caused by the improper installation of the wheel itself. During installation, as the wheel is being mounted, lug nuts or other intricate parts to the wheel aren’t tightened the way they should. As they loosen, the wheel studs break and the wheel separates from the car. This can also occur with improper maintenance, or manufacturer’s defects.

Tires

Your tire is one of the most common reasons for broken suspension failures. If your tire is flat, you can’t drive on it for even short distances. If you put too much pressure on the wheel without the protection of the tire, you’ll destroy the wheel. And without properly inflated tires, you won’t be able to stop or handle the car around curves and turns the way you can under normal conditions. It becomes difficult to steer, slowing down is problematic, and you’re at greater risk for getting into an accident. Change the tire as soon as you discover it’s flat.

Springs

Every car has a coil spring within the suspension system. The coil springs allow the wheels to carry the car vertically, while also holding the rest of the car together. The size of the spring determines the height of the ride. If the coil spring breaks, your car will appear to sit lower than normal. You’ll often find the coil springs start to rust over time where they connect to the suspension system. A broken spring will also affect wheel alignment and cause a distinct rattling noise. If you keep driving on it, it can become dislodged if you hit a bump or pothole, and possibly damage other parts of your suspension system.

Shocks and Struts

If a shock absorber no longer works, you’ll notice your car starts to bounce quite a bit. It may also squat or dive excessively as you apply the brakes. All of these can make the car uncomfortable to ride in, but more importantly, it can also make it difficult to control. Especially as you pick up speed. If you discover you have a broken shock absorber, never increase to highway speeds. Avoid tailgating, taking corners too fast, or braking or stopping quickly.

The struts are part of the suspension system that hold the body of the car off the ground. Struts connect many different parts of the suspension system, including the coil spring and shock absorber. They impact both your car’s steering and alignment. If your car’s struts break, it’s similar to having both your shocks and coil springs break. That means your ride will both be uncomfortable to drive, have the possibility of damaging other parts on your car, and unsafe.

Steering system

Have you started to notice your steering is acting funny? It might be your steering rack or something like tie rod ends. With the rack and pinion steering system, it connects the movement of the left-right steering wheel to the left-right tires to make the wheels turn. The steering column itself sits on a pinion gear that turns, connects the gears in the rack, and gives it the left-right control. The “power” in power steering comes from pressurized fluid flowing through the passages that give you the power to turn the wheels. This fluid also keeps everything cool and prevents damage as metal hits metal. It’s important to change this fluid on a regular basis, according to your car manufacturer’s guidance.

Other

Your car’s suspension system has too many parts to discuss them all here. But every one of them is necessary to keep your car working properly and to keep you safe as you drive. If any part fails, it can make your driving experience unsafe at best.

If you think you have a problem, don’t put it off. Schedule a maintenance appointment today, and we’ll ensure your car is in the best working condition possible. It’ll give you confidence to know your car is as safe as it can be.

 

6 Signs My Car Needs Suspension Repair

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When someone talks about car performance, what do you think? For most people, they think horsepower. How fast it takes for a car to move from zero to sixty. How quickly a car moves off the line.

That’s all a part of performance. And the engine is a big part of how well a car performs.

But without the suspension system, there wouldn’t be a way to control a car. The car quite literally would be out of control.6 Signs My Car Needs Suspension Repair

The job of a suspension system is stability. It’s designed to maximize friction between the tires and the road. The steering should be stable and easy to control. All of it is to ensure the passengers are comfortable and safe throughout the ride.

If all roads were perfectly flat, the suspension system wouldn’t be necessary. But even a short drive around the Front Range shows you are roads are rarely straight. Instead, they curve and wind. And from years of wear and tear, you’ll find bumps, potholes, and other irregularities that can make each venture away from home more challenging than the last.

Whenever you hit these irregularities with your car, the wheels take the brunt of the impact.  They move up and down, readjusting based on road conditions. If they didn’t adjust and move, the force would have a direct impact on the frame of your car. If you’ve ever been in an auto accident, you know that’s not a good thing.

The suspension system is designed to take this energy and absorb it before it impacts the rest of your car. It leaves the frame, the body, even the passengers safe and secure … if the suspension system is doing its job.

When cars are built, they are designed with two dynamics in mind:

Ride – how well the car handles on a bumpy road

Handling – how well a car accelerates, corners, and brakes

Of course, safety is always the number one factor. If a car is built that won’t keep passengers safe, what’s the point?

Which means occasionally, you might notice your ride and handling failing. They aren’t performing as they did when your car was younger. Here are six signs to watch for; experience any of these, and you know it’s time for suspension repair.

1. When a car ride’s roughly

In most cases, when you ride in your car, you enjoy the ride. When the suspension system starts failing, you start to notice every bump and curve. As you move over a bump, or slow for a dip in the road, your car “bumps” right along with it. You notice a “bouncing” action as the car continues through the bump in the road.

This is a sign your suspension system is failing. A rough ride is a sign your car is in need of suspension repair.

2. When a car drifts or pulls

When a suspension system is failing, it often develops a drift or a pull. As you’re driving down the road, do you feel like you need a tighter grip on the steering wheel because your car always drifts either right or left? That’s a sign the suspension is failing.

The suspension system is designed to keep the car stable at all times; that includes moving forward and staying in your lane. As you maneuver around corners and curves, it’s the suspension system that keeps your car grounded, and prevents it from rolling over.

When you start to notice your car pulling or drifting as you drive, it’s time to schedule an appointment for suspension repair.

3. When a car nose-dives when stopping

As your suspension system continues to wear, you’ll notice it as you are stopping. When you come to a stop, does the front of your car dive down as you apply pressure to the brakes? That’s your suspension system failing.

As the suspension system wears out, it decreases the ability to stop. By some estimates, you’ll need several seconds more for your car to stop. That impacts the safety of everyone in your car.

4. When a car’s tires are impacted

Next time you’re about to head out, spend a few minutes walking around your car, and look at the tires. If your car is operating the way it should, you’ll see even wear on the tread. If you notice unevenness, or bald spots in some areas while it looks less worn in others, it’s a sign your suspension system isn’t working the way it should.

It’s important to ensure your tires are always filled at proper levels. If your suspension system is operating correctly, it will put even amounts of pressure on all four tires as it moves you from point A to point B. Unevenness is a sign that your suspension system isn’t working the way it should.

5. When a car has oily shocks

If you know what you are looking for, you can look under your car and inspect the shocks or struts. If they are working properly, they won’t have an oily glean to them. If they are damaged in any way, you’ll see the appearance of fluid leaking from within. This is a sign of failure, and a notice to you that it’s time for suspension repair.

6. When you fail the bounce test

There’s an easy test to determine if your car suspension is failing. With your car in park, press down on the hood of your car and release. Does the vehicle bounce more than once or twice? Do the same in the back. Do you get the same results?

A worn out suspension system will have a lot of give. You’ll have a car that isn’t safe for you or your passengers. You’ll know it’s time to bring your car in.

The actual repair job depends on your car’s make and model. Different cars need different parts and service.

Yet it’s important to remember that it’s not just the parts that need replacing; a reputable mechanic will look at the overall condition of the vehicle too. If your suspension system has been failing for a number of weeks or months, more damage could have occurred, increasing the costs of making the repairs. That’s why it’s a good idea to get in quickly, the minute you suspect you have a problem. It can be the difference between a simple or a costly repair.

Think you have a suspension problem? Looking for a reputable mechanic to get your questions answered? Give us a call today. We can help you with your suspension repair and get you back on the road today.

Suspension Wear

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Your suspension system keeps your car up off the road.  From there, it’s responsible for a smooth and comfortable ride wherever you choose to drive.  It also keeps your wheels firmly planted over bumps and through curves.

Your suspension system has many critical parts that do a big job and because of of that, they should be inspected for suspension wear or damage at least once a year.  A good time to check for suspension wear would be when you get your semiannual alignment check.

Here are some warning signs of suspension problems:  the car pulls to one side, wandering, erratic steering, uneven tire wear.  You could also experience leaning, shocks bottoming out, a poor ride or handling, leaking oil from the shocks and excessive bouncing.

Unfortunately, suspension parts just wear out over time.  Shocks and struts eventually lose their ability to control your ride.  If you’re in an accident, your suspension can be damaged or knocked out of alignment.  Even a minor accident, like hitting a curb, pothole or large rock, can mess things up.  If you suspect suspension problems, ask a trusted service adviser at Express Car Care for an inspection and let us set things right.

Give us a call or come in and see us.

At Express Car Care we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

Keep It Straight-Wheel Alignment

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Have you ever been in your local grocery store and had one of those shopping carts?  You know, the one with a messed up wheel that wobbles like crazy.  Your cart shakes and pulls to one side and if you’re not careful, it’s clean up on aisle nine.

Wheel alignment on your vehicle is a lot like that.  One or more of your wheels can get out of alignment and you feel a vibration in your steering wheel, which may also be off-center.  Your vehicle might pull to one side and your tires start to wear unevenly.  If you’re not paying attention you could chew through a tire in a few months.

Sometimes wheels get knocked out of alignment by something big like hitting a curb on a bumpy road or slamming into a pothole.  But everyday driving takes a toll too and vehicles naturally lose alignment over time.  That’s why we recommend an alignment check at regular intervals.  At Express Car Care, we offer a full menu of quality auto repair and maintenance services, including wheel alignment.

In your alignment inspection, your friendly and helpful technician will check your tires and your suspension system for damage.  He’ll test your alignment to see if it’s within specifications.  If not, he can make the necessary adjustments to get the wheels of your vehicle all pointing the same direction again.

If your vehicle pulls to one side, or you feel a vibration in the steering wheel, if your tires seem to be wearing abnormally, talk with your service adviser.  You may need to put an alignment inspection at the top of your to-do list.

Give us a call or come in and see us.

Express Car Care Takes Care of Your Car’s Suspension

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As you all can imagine, if most of your driving is done on smooth highways and roads, your car’s suspension will last a lot longer.  But I’m sure you know that most roads and highways are anything but smooth, they’re usually extremely rough, especially with all the road construction that is taking place.  As drivers, we are always trying to avoid potholes and other hazards in the road.  These conditions can wreak havoc on your car’s suspension.

After so many years and miles of hazardous driving your vehicle’s suspension system components will wear out, but how long that takes depends on how well you take care of your car’s suspension.  In addition to wearing out, a car’s suspension components can be damaged in an accident or by a hard impact like a pothole, hitting a curb or a rock on a bumpy road.

Because the life span of shocks can vary so widely, your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends periodic inspections.  During an inspection, your knowledgeable Express Car Care service adviser will check for worn, broken or missing parts.

Signs for drivers that shocks or struts are wearing out:  the vehicle’s tires may have a cupped wear pattern.  This is from the shocks bouncing unevenly.  Drivers may notice a floating or drifting sensation when cornering.  If the front of your car dives excessively when stopping or rocks back and forth after you stop, your shocks may be worn out.  And if they are leaking fluid, it’s definitely time to replace them.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, come see us at Express Car Care in Denver for a suspension inspection, also if you’ve been in an accident that involved one of your vehicle’s wheels.  Worn or broken shocks can cause premature wear or failure on other suspension parts such as ball joints and other steering components as well.  If your car’s suspension actually fails, it could lead to a serious accident, so let Express Car Care take care of your car’s suspension.

When drivers replace their vehicle shocks, it’s usually best to replace all four at the same time.  That provides more even handling.  Be sure to consult with your service adviser because you don’t want a big difference between the performance of your shocks from wheel to wheel, and replacing all of them may be the safest bet.

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