A vehicle's suspension and steering systems are crucial for both safety and comfort. Keeping them in excellent condition is essential, so you should always be on the lookout for any signs of malfunction. If you live in or near Kirksville, Missouri, and you're looking for a reliable service center, our team at Kirksville Motor Company is here to help.

Some common signs indicating that you may need to take your vehicle in to have its suspension and steering inspected include:

• Your ride is rougher than usual: One of the most common and easy-to-spot signs that something may be wrong with your suspension or steering is that driving your vehicle is less comfortable than it used to be. If even a minor pothole causes excessive bounce, the issue may be one of your suspension system's shocks or struts.
• Your vehicle dips forward when braking: It's natural for your car to tip forward a little when you hit the brakes hard. If it dives forward significantly, however, then your suspension system probably can't evenly distribute the vehicle's weight correctly and needs a repair.
• Your car pulls to one side: Another classic sign that you may need a steering or suspension repair job is your vehicle gently pulling to one side without you steering in that direction. This could happen for a wide variety of reasons, so it's essential to have it checked out as soon as possible.
• You notice that your tires are unevenly worn: A faulty suspension system is likely to cause uneven tire wear. If one side is more worn than the other, this may be because your suspension system can't distribute weight evenly anymore.
• You hear strange noises: Another clear and classic sign that something is wrong with your steering or suspension is hearing unusual noises, such as clunking or knocking. This indicates a serious issue, and leaving it unattended isn't just unsafe but can also lead to problems affecting other areas, such as your axles or braking system.

If you notice that steering your vehicle is more difficult or imprecise than it used to be, these are the most likely causes:

• Power fluid issues: One of the most common reasons for steering issues is having low or contaminated power steering fluid. It's essential to make sure yours is relatively new and that there are no leaks anywhere within the system.
• Mechanical issues: Your steering not working correctly may also be due to a faulty component. Common culprits include the power steering pump, steering belt, and steering rack.
• Indirect issues: Your steering problems may come from an issue not directly related to the steering system. Some examples include improper wheel alignment, uneven or low tire pressure, or electrical issues that prevent the power steering system from properly doing its job.

Your vehicle's suspension system is essential for precise steering and a comfortable ride. It contains many different components, including springs, shocks, struts, and control arms, which work together to absorb the vibrations generated by the road as much as possible. The vehicle's springs are sturdy enough to support its weight and do a great job helping the vehicle over large potholes, while other components, such as struts and shocks, keep the springs from bouncing too much. The whole system is linked to the vehicle via its control arms.
A properly working suspension system will first and foremost provide comfort by keeping the vehicle stable when driving over road imperfections. The discomfort you feel when going over a large pothole or driving on an old road would be much greater without suspension. It also keeps the vehicle stable, preventing it from rolling over when making sharp turns and helping the tires remain in contact with the road at all times.

Having well-aligned wheels helps both the steering and suspension systems. Over time, your wheels may lose their alignment due to factors such as wear and tear. Having them correctly aligned:

• Improves safety: Struggling to drive your vehicle straight can have serious safety consequences. Besides making it harder to avoid sudden road dangers, this will also wear your tires unevenly, reducing your control over the vehicle even further.
• Boosts fuel efficiency: Having uneven wheels makes it significantly harder for your engine to push the vehicle forward. This obviously burns more fuel, leading to higher gas expenses.
• Helps you avoid other repairs: Having wheels that don't roll smoothly on the road will force other components, including the steering and suspension systems, to overcompensate to keep you moving. Over time, this is likely to cause premature wear and tear, resulting in your vehicle requiring costly repairs.
• Makes your ride more comfortable: Your wheels fighting each other can significantly affect ride comfort, especially while taking a corner or braking. Besides the safety issues, driving a car with uneven tires can be an uncomfortable experience.

If you've ever driven a vehicle with no power steering, you'll understand that being able to easily turn your wheels at low speeds is a huge advantage. However, the power steering system also needs maintenance. Having your power steering fluid and filter changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals will likely keep it in good working condition for many years.

If you're driving around Kirksville and notice any sign of a steering or suspension issue, getting your vehicle checked out as soon as possible can prevent safety risks and further damage. Our experienced technicians at Kirksville Motor Company's service department will inspect and service your car quickly and effectively so you can continue to have a comfortable, safe driving experience. Visiting us regularly for vehicle maintenance will help you catch and resolve minor issues before they become more expensive to repair. Schedule a service visit through our website today.

vehicle tire by Greg Rosenke is licensed with Unsplash License