3-2
STEERING, SUSPENSION, WHEELS AND TIRES
DIAGNOSIS
GENERAL DIAGNOSIS
Since the problems in steering, suspension, wheels and tires involve several systems, they must all be considered
when diagnosing a complaint. To avoid using the wrong symptom, always road test the vehicle first. Proceed with
the following preliminary inspection and correct any defects which are found.
1) Inspect tires for proper pressure and uneven wear.
2) Raise vehicle on a hoist and inspect front and rear suspension and steering system for loose or damaged parts.
3) Spin front wheels. Inspect for out-of-round tires, out-of-balance tires, bent rims, loosen and/or rough wheel
bearings.
DIAGNOSIS TABLE
Condition
Possible Cause
Correction
Vehicle Pulls (Leads)
Mismatched or uneven tires.
Tires not adequately inflated.
Broken or sagging springs.
Radial tire lateral force.
Disturbed front end alignment.
Disturbed rear wheel alignment.
Brake dragging in one road wheel.
Loose, bent or broken front or rear sus-
pension parts.
Replace tire.
Adjust tire pressure.
Replace spring.
Replace tire.
Check and adjust front end alignment.
Check and adjust rear wheel alignment.
Repair front brake.
Tighten or replace suspension parts.
Abnormal or
Excessive Tire Wear
Sagging or broken spring.
Tire out of balance.
Disturbed front end alignment.
Faulty strut (shock absorber).
Hard driving.
Overloaded vehicle.
Not rotating tire.
Worn or loose road wheel bearing.
Wobbly wheel or tire.
Tires not adequately inflated.
Replace spring.
Adjust balance or replace tire.
Check and adjust front end alignment.
Replace strut.
Replace tire.
Replace tire.
Replace or rotate tire.
Replace wheel bearing.
Replace wheel or tire.
Adjust tire pressure.
Wheel Tramp
Blister or bump on tire.
Improper strut (shock absorber) action.
Replace tire.
Replace strut.
