Welcome to Trustworthy Auto, your premier auto repair shop in Seekonk, MA. Known for our high-quality work and exceptional customer service, we specialize in suspension repair and vehicle steering & suspension services, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and performs at its best. Our ASE certified technicians, equipped with the latest tools and technology, are dedicated to maintaining your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems, particularly for European vehicles.
Components of the Steering and Suspension Systems
The steering and suspension systems are crucial for a vehicle’s safety and handling, ensuring a smooth ride and precise control. Here are the key components of both systems:
Steering System Components
- Steering Wheel: The primary interface for the driver, translating driver inputs into movement of the steering system.
- Steering Column: Connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism. It contains the steering shaft, which transfers the steering wheel’s rotation to the steering gear.
- Steering Rack or Box: Transforms the rotational movement of the steering wheel into the lateral movement needed to turn the wheels. In rack-and-pinion systems, the steering rack accomplishes this; in older or larger vehicles, a steering box may be used instead.
- Tie Rods: Connect the steering rack or box to the steering arms. They transmit force from the steering center to the wheels, facilitating wheel turning.
- Steering Arms and Ball Joints: Attached to the wheels, these components pivot and allow for effective wheel movement and alignment adjustments.
- Power Steering Pump (if applicable): Provides assistance to the steering by reducing the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. It’s powered by the vehicle’s engine.
Suspension System Components
- Springs: Coil springs are the most common, but leaf springs are still used in some trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. Springs support the vehicle’s weight and absorb and dampen shock from road surfaces.
- Shock Absorbers and Struts: Shocks and struts dampen the motion of the vehicle as it moves over bumps and uneven surfaces, helping to maintain ride quality and vehicle handling.
- Control Arms: Attach the suspension members to the chassis and manage the motion of the wheels so that it is in line with the body of the car. They are connected to the vehicle’s frame through a flexible joint, which is typically a bushing.
- Ball Joints: These spherical bearings connect the control arms to the steering knuckles and allow for smooth and stable movement in the suspension.
- Suspension Bushings: These are rubber or polyurethane components that isolate vibration, reduce friction, and protect more rigid parts of the suspension.
- Sway Bars (Anti-roll Bars): These help reduce the vehicle’s roll or tilt when turning by increasing the suspension’s roll stiffness.
Each component plays a critical role in ensuring the vehicle’s steering and suspension systems function optimally. Regular maintenance of these components is essential for safe driving conditions and to prevent premature wear and tear. If any parts of the steering or suspension systems fail, they can dramatically affect the driving experience and could potentially lead to dangerous driving conditions.
Flexible Financing Options
We offer financing through Snap to help make your auto repair and maintenance needs more manageable.
How to Tell if Your Suspension Needs Replacing
Understanding when your suspension needs replacing is crucial for your safety and vehicle performance. Recognizing the symptoms early can prevent further damage and ensure a smooth driving experience.
Rough Ride
If you start to feel every bump in the road or if every bump causes the vehicle body to “bounce,” a worn or damaged suspension could be the culprit. A smooth ride indicates that the suspension is performing its job of absorbing the motion caused by driving on uneven surfaces.
Drifting or Pulling During Turns
When the suspension system is failing, you might feel the vehicle “drift” or “pull” when you make turns. This is because the shocks are no longer keeping the vehicle body stable against the centrifugal force of a turn, increasing your risk of a rollover.
Dips or "Nose Dives" When Stopping
When the shocks are worn out, you may notice the vehicle body lurching forward and downward nose-first when you apply the brakes firmly. This can affect your ability to stop the car quickly.
Uneven Tire Treads
If you notice uneven wear on your tires, it could be due to a failing suspension system not holding the car evenly, thereby putting uneven amounts of pressure on the tires.
Greasy or Oily Shocks
If you can see that the shocks and struts of your vehicle look greasy or oily, there’s a good chance that they are leaking fluid and are not working properly.
Difficulty Steering
If steering becomes difficult, especially when driving at low speeds, it could indicate a problem with the suspension system. It might feel like the steering wheel is “slipping” when you turn it or hold it in a turned position.
Sagging or Uneven Vehicle Stance
If one corner of your car sits lower than the others when parked, it’s likely due to a damaged spring. Over time, springs can wear out and break, causing the suspension to drop.
Hearing Noises When Driving Over Bumps
Hearing unusual noises such as clunking, rattling, or metallic sounds when you drive over bumps or make sharp turns can indicate loose or worn suspension parts.
Recognizing these signs and getting timely repairs can help maintain the vehicle’s integrity and performance, ensuring a safer and more comfortable driving experience. Regular checks by a professional at Trustworthy Auto can prevent minor issues from developing into major repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steering and Suspension Services at Trustworthy Auto
How often should I have my steering and suspension checked at Trustworthy Auto?
We recommend having your steering and suspension systems inspected annually, or sooner if you encounter any driving irregularities. Regular checks ensure your vehicle maintains optimal performance and safety.
What causes steering and suspension components to wear out?
Factors include normal aging, driving on rough roads, or impacts from accidents. At Trustworthy Auto, we use precision equipment to diagnose and resolve these issues effectively.
Is it safe to drive with a damaged suspension or steering system?
Driving with compromised steering or suspension can significantly affect your vehicle’s safety and handling. We advise stopping by Trustworthy Auto for an immediate assessment to prevent further damage and ensure your safety.
What is the difference between shocks and struts, and how does Trustworthy Auto handle replacements?
Both shocks and struts are crucial for absorbing road impacts. Struts are a structural part of the vehicle’s suspension system, while shocks are separate components. Trustworthy Auto provides expert replacement services for both, using top-quality parts and precise alignment techniques.
Our Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction
At Trustworthy Auto, we prioritize quality and customer satisfaction. We strive to provide exceptional service and ensure our customers are happy and their vehicles are in excellent condition.
Courtesy Vehicle Health Checks
Every vehicle that comes to Trustworthy Auto receives a courtesy health check. This ensures we catch any potential issues early, saving you time and money in the long run.
Customer-Centric Services
We offer loaner cars, shuttle service, and text to pay options. Our goal is to make your experience as convenient and pleasant as possible.
Warranty and Financing
We provide a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty on our services. Additionally, financing options are available through Snap, making it easier for you to manage repair costs.
Warranty and Amenities
At Trustworthy Auto, we back our services with a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty, providing peace of mind with every visit. Our amenities include:
Loaner Cars and Shuttle Service
Stay on the go with our convenient transportation options.
Flexible Service Options
Benefit from early bird drop-off and after-hours pick-up to fit your busy schedule.
Reliable Warranty
At Trustworthy Auto, we believe that quality repairs should come with peace of mind. That’s why we back our services with a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty, one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. This coverage ensures that you can drive confidently, knowing that if an issue arises with a repair we performed, we’ll take care of it at no additional cost. Our warranty reflects our commitment to quality and our dedication to building long-term trust with our customers.
What our customers says about us
Our customers have nothing but positive things to say about us! They consistently praise our exceptional service, attention to detail, and ability to exceed their expectations.
Jim Corbett
2 weeks ago
Had a great experience at Trustworthy auto. First time there, they took great care of my car! Got the job done at a fair price! Thanks Again! In the words of Arnold I”ll Be Back!
Jim Corbett
2 weeks ago
Had a great experience at Trustworthy auto. First time there, they took great care of my car! Got the job done at a fair price! Thanks Again! In the words of Arnold I”ll Be Back!
Jim Corbett
2 weeks ago
Had a great experience at Trustworthy auto. First time there, they took great care of my car! Got the job done at a fair price! Thanks Again! In the words of Arnold I”ll Be Back!
Jim Corbett
2 weeks ago
Had a great experience at Trustworthy auto. First time there, they took great care of my car! Got the job done at a fair price! Thanks Again! In the words of Arnold I”ll Be Back!
Jim Corbett
2 weeks ago
Had a great experience at Trustworthy auto. First time there, they took great care of my car! Got the job done at a fair price! Thanks Again! In the words of Arnold I”ll Be Back!
Contact Us for Your Steering & Suspension Needs in Seekonk, MA
Maintaining your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems is crucial for safety and performance. Trustworthy Auto is dedicated to providing top-quality service, ensuring your vehicle is in the best hands. Visit us at 246 Pine St., Seekonk, MA, 02771, call us at 508-639-9414, or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you.
