Steering and suspension systems are the backbone of your vehicle's handling. They absorb road shocks, maintain tire alignment, and allow your vehicle to handle corners with greater precision.
Regular inspections identify issues like worn-out shocks or misaligned wheels before they become significant problems, all while extending the life of your tires.
Here at The Auto Station, we offer in-depth diagnostics and repairs for all makes and models. Start each drive confidently, knowing your vehicle is ready for whatever the road brings — here in Burlington and beyond!
Common Steering and Suspension Fixes
Strange Noises While Turning
Odd creaking or clunking sounds during turns often indicate issues with the steering or suspension, typically from worn-out ball joints or bushings. Addressing these early can prevent serious damage and maintain a smooth, quieter ride.
Urgency: High
Time to Fix: 2-3 hours
Cost Range: 250 - $600
Uneven Tire Wear
Uneven tire wear is a common sign of misalignment or suspension problems. Professional maintenance not only extends tire life but also improves fuel efficiency and handling. A proper wheel alignment minimizes the forces distributed across your suspension system and prevents costly problems before they develop.
Urgency: Medium
Time to Fix: 1-2 hours
Cost Range: $100 - $300
Vibrations or Shaking
Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or seat point to issues with suspension components, particularly worn-out shocks or struts. It is important to address vibration immediately as damage to critical components can occur.
Urgency: High
Time to Fix: 2-4 hours
Cost Range: $200 - $700
Steering Wheel Pulling
Notice your steering wheel pulling to one side? This usually indicates alignment issues or uneven tire pressure, affecting both handling as well as safety. A quick alignment check can resolve this and keep your car driving straight!
Urgency: Medium
Time to Fix: 1-2 hours
Cost Range: $80 - $250
Bouncy Ride
Excessive bouncing suggests that either your shocks or struts need attention. Replacing these components will restore a smooth ride and improve overall handling. Proper ride control prevents a multitude of suspension-related failures and minimizes future repair costs.
Urgency: Medium
Time to Fix: 2-3 hours
Cost Range: $300 - $800
Steering and Suspension Maintenance Tips
- Check Tire Pressure Monthly
Be sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure; the average is between 28-36 PSI (pounds per square inch), but this may vary depending on your specific vehicle.
Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire, including the spare. Properly inflated tires ensure maximum fuel economy, maximize tire life, and provide the most comfortable ride.
- Inspect Tire Tread
Regularly check the tread depth of your tires. We recommend using a tread depth gauge, but if you don’t have one, try the nickel test. Insert the coin into the tread with Queen Elizabeth’s head down; if her head is visible, the tread is too worn, and new tires are needed.
- Be Alert for Odd Noises
While driving, pay attention to any unusual sounds like clunking or squeaking, especially when turning or going over bumps. These can be early indicators of worn suspension parts! Remember: early action can save big bucks.
- Check Power Steering Fluid
Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood and confirm the fluid level is between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks. Top it up if necessary, using the recommended fluid type.
Any groaning or whining sounds from the power steering system generally indicate air entrainment, which can cause power steering fluid to froth or foam and result in early pump failure. Fluid quality is an important checkpoint in addition to the level.
Steering and Suspension Repair Services at The Auto Station
- Precision Alignment and Tire Balancing
With advanced alignment technology, we meticulously adjust your wheels via laser measurement systems to ensure they are perfectly aligned and balanced.
Our testing system includes an integrated laser profile measurement of the tread surface of your tires that provides early indication of any possible problems (and helps avoid future expenses).
- Shock and Strut Renewal Replacements
If your ride feels rough or your handling is off, it might be time for new shocks and struts. Our Burlington mechanics will replace these components to bring back your vehicle's smooth ride and stability.
Properly functioning shocks and struts have a significant effect on the braking power of your car. Well maintained suspension systems can provide as much as 30 feet shorter stopping distance from 50 kph. A smooth, straight ride is no accident!
- Ball Joint and Bushing Maintenance
Ball joints and bushings are essential for seamless steering. Thorough inspections and timely replacements of these parts help prevent steering problems and maintain better vehicle control.
In many cases, premature ball joint and bushing failure is directly related to wheel alignment. A simple indication of this type of structural concern is excessive wear on one edge of any tire on your car.
- Power Steering System Care
Routine checks of your power steering system — including fluid levels and hose conditions — are important for preventing leaks and keeping your steering smooth and trouble-free.
The hydraulic fluid in the steering system of your car is moisture sensitive, as this fluid can become very corrosive and requires bi-annual inspection.
Steering/Suspension Maintenance Schedule and Cost
Alignment Check
Having your vehicle's alignment checked annually is important for even tire wear and handling. We use precision equipment to adjust the angles of your wheels—camber, caster, and toe—to match the manufacturer's specifications.
Proper alignment can prevent excessive load and wear on your car's steering and suspension systems.
⇒ $125 - $180
Tire Rotation and Balance
Bring your vehicle into our Burlington auto shop near you and have your tires rotated every 10,000 km or so. The Auto Station team will move each tire from one position to another if needed at no charge with every oil change.
We inspect your tires and determine if a balance is required for even weight distribution and vibration-free rotation.
⇒ $40 - $80
Shock & Strut Inspection
Have your shocks and struts inspected every 50,000 km or when you notice a decline in ride comfort.
This inspection checks for fluid leaks (which can indicate worn seals) and examines the physical condition for signs of wear, such as dents, corrosion, or damage.
⇒ $50 - $100
Ball Joint & Bushing Evaluation
Ball joints and bushings should be evaluated every 30,000 km or if you hear unusual noises or experience handling issues.
During your regular oil maintenance service, our technicians look for little signs of wear, cracks, or looseness, which can lead to big, expensive steering problems and uneven tire wear if not addressed.
⇒ $60 - $120
Power Steering Fluid Check
Ideally, we’ll assess your power steering fluid with every regular service to ensure it remains at the correct level and free of contaminants.
Contaminated or low fluid often leads to steering difficulties and potential damage to the power steering system.
⇒ $30 - $60
Why Choose The Auto Station for Steering and Suspension in Burlington, ON?
At The Auto Station, we love our customers and treat every job as if it were for our own vehicles. Our Burlington shop near you is equipped with the latest technology to keep your vehicle’s handling as sharp and responsive as ever!
From the moment you walk in, a welcoming team is ready to make your experience as seamless as possible. No matter the problem, The Auto Station’s certified technicians are available to assist with any concerns about your suspension system.
With us, you’ll never encounter hidden fees or surprises — just dependable service you can trust. Choose The Auto Station for all your steering and suspension needs, and let us help you navigate the road with ease!
