Suspension Inspection Tips

[DaFonTe]

Hope this isn't too long. I'm Looking for tips on inspecting the suspension.

I do most of my car repairs, but my problem is not knowing what's in need of replacement.

Recently the front end was not riding or sounding right, so I paid a mechanics shop to do a full front end inspection (ball joints, tie rods, struts, springs, etc)

The mechanic told me the driver's side wheel bearing was the problem and needed replacing. The other parts were fine. I took my car back and bought the new bearing and replaced it.

When I took the car out for a test run, the car was no different, so the wheel bearing wasn't the problem.

Anyways, I've taken the car back to the mechanic and asked him to check again, but I don't want to have to rely on mechanics anymore. I want to learn to check it out myself.

Any sites you can point me to for free info/education?

Thanks,

D

[thecarguy]

I never accuse the wheel bearing of a rough ride but I do look at it as a saftey repair, it may have not affected the ride but did need changed. Try looking at all of the bushings to make sure they are still in good shape. If you find a buildup of chassis grease anywhere you might have a bushing bad somewhere.