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STEERING, SUSPENSION, AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT

That wear on the inside edge of your tires isn't normal! It's upsetting to have to replace your tires because only the inside or outside edge wore out and the rest of the tire still has plenty of tread! Than annoying clunking sound when going over bumps? Not normal either... But it's been doing that for years! Eventually its going to get to the point where the faulty component breaks and that will lead to loss of vehicle control. Who wants that?! Steering and suspension repairs can become very expensive, but proper care and maintenance at Auto Go will often catch problems BEFORE they become huge investments.
STEERING SYSTEM
There are several different types and styles of steering systems. The two major types are rack and pinion type and recirculating ball type. The rack and pinion is found on most late model cars and recently more and more light trucks are using this system. Common problems with this system include external fluid leaks, noises, and internal fluid leaks resulting in loss of power steering. This system needs pressurized fluid to work, supplied by the power steering pump. The recirculating ball type of power steering system is quite different from the rack and pinion type in appearance, but functions mostly the same using pressurized fluid from the power steering pump to aid in turning the steering wheel. The most recent development in power steering is electronic steering or steering by wire. In these systems an electric motor moves the steering gear and no pressurized fluid is needed.
There are many components that make up the steering system besides the pump and gear. Tie rod ends, drag links, center links, ball joints, pitman arms, idler arms, tie rod adjustment sleeves, power steering fluid hoses and lines. And that's just to name some of them. All parts in a steering system can and do wear out. It is critical that you have the steering and suspension system checked any time the vehicle is lifted for service. You may have a part failing and not even know it.
SUSPENSION SYSTEM
The suspension system is once again made up of a multitude of components that work seamlessly together to provide that plush ride you are used to. When a component of the suspension system begins to fail, most likely you won't know it. Sometimes you will hear a thumping or knocking noise when going over bumps, sometimes you will notice abnormal tire wear or a squeaking noise when you turn the steering wheel. All of these symptoms means it's time to bring your vehicle in for service. Sometimes you won't notice anything at all until it's too late and the component has separated and now you've lost control of the vehicle. One would hope this never happens and it can be prevented by regular routine maintenance. Some basic components of the suspension system are ball joints, coil springs, torsion bars, control arms, various bushings, and shocks and struts.
ALIGNMENT
To ensure proper tire wear and safe vehicle handling, alignments are a must in your preventative maintenance schedule. Any time you purchase new tires, protect your investment and have the alignment checked. If any steering or suspension parts have been replaced, it is imperative that the alignment be checked. We have the absolute latest technology in alignment machines and the most highly trained technicians to ensure your alignment is set up right.