Suspension Service Near Carbondale, PA
Suspension Services at Toyota of Scranton
Just like your Toyota’s brakes or tires, the suspension system is a critical part of your vehicle that requires routine maintenance as well. The suspension helps to support the overall control of your vehicle which in turn contributes to a smoother, safer, and more reliable ride. While the suspension does not require too much maintenance, it’s important to understand early warning signs for when service is needed. Stop by Toyota of Scranton for an inspection of your suspension system today.
How Does a Suspension Work?
The suspension system on a car is a protective lattice of shock-absorbing components made of springs and dampers which aid in a safe and smooth ride. Springs and dampers help to absorb energy from various bumps and impacts in the road while helping the tires stay connected with the ground. The main parts that make up a vehicle’s suspension system include:
- Anti-Sway Bar: Shifts the movement of your Toyota’s wheels in accordance with the steering wheel, and helps to stabilize the car’s direction.
- Control Arm:Â Hinged links that connect the steering wheel to the ball joints
- Ball Joints:Â Provide a pivoting motion between the control arms and the steering knuckles
- Springs:Â Help to control the load and height of the suspension and cabin
- Shocks:Â Also known as dampers, absorb energy from the tires when they make contact with the road
Most vehicles have a suspension system for the front and the back wheels and can either be independent or dependent. If a suspension system is independent, it means that it uses the front or back wheels to move independently of the front or back axle. If the suspension is dependent, the direction of the wheels is bound by the movement of the axle.
Is Your Suspension Damaged?
Knowing what to feel for when it comes to your suspension is imperative to detecting damage. Is your Toyota taking longer than normal to come to a complete stop? This is one of the very first signs that your suspension is damaged. If your vehicle is not accelerating or stopping as it used to, then you may have a problem with the suspension. Unusual squeaking or clanking is another sign of damage as well. When the suspension system can no longer absorb the energy from bumps on the road, it makes unsettling noises. Finally, if your Toyota drifts, pulls, or swerves while driving straight, then it may be time to schedule an appointment with our service center right away.
Is It Safe to Drive with a Damaged Suspension?
It could be very dangerous to drive with a damaged suspension system since the suspension helps to keep the vehicle connected to the road. Not being able to stop quickly enough in an emergency can also happen if your suspension is not well maintained. Increased risk of rolling is also a possibility. Having your Toyota’s suspension system regularly maintained by a certified factory-trained technician is imperative to your safety on the road.