Steering and Suspension Parts

STEERING AND SUSPENSION REPLACEMENT PARTS

NAPA Auto Parts has top-quality suspension and steering system replacement parts and tools for your car, truck, or SUV. We offer all the parts you need to maintain, repair, and restore your car's original performance.

NAPA offers over 500,000 automotive parts that comply with or exceed OEM part requirements, including shocks, struts, and mounts, sway bars, links, and hardware. wheel bearings, hubs, and seals, and tie rod ends and sleeves. Buy online and get your parts delivered to you or pick them up in-store.

WHAT IS THE STEERING AND SUSPENSION SYSTEM?

There are two separate systems, a steering system and a suspension system, that work together to ensure you maintain control of your car, truck, or SUV.

The main function of the steering system is to allow the driver to guide the car, and the main function of the suspension system is to support the vehicle while in use.

It's important for these systems to be working properly, as they are essential for stability, handling, and ride quality to ensure a smooth ride and safe drive. Regular daily driving causes wear and tear on your vehicle's front suspension, rear suspension, and wheel alignment parts. These should be inspected regularly to ensure they are A1.

What does the steering and suspension system do?

1. Absorbs shocks caused by potholes, bumps, and other road obstacles.
2. Allows for motion to ensure clearance between the vehicle and wheel assembly.
3. Reduces car body roll when you turn a corner.
4. Supports the weight of the vehicle.
5. Allows for better directional control of the front wheels to prevent the car from drifting or pulling.
6. Prevents car body lean or tilt when accelerating, braking, or carrying a heavy load.

Different types of steering systems:

- Hydraulic: uses vacuum pressure from the engine for power

- Electronic: uses electric power from the battery and charging system.

Different types of suspensions:

- Linkages connecting the chassis to the wheels

- Coil springs

- Strut assemblies

- Shock absorbers

MAIN COMPONENTS OF STEERING AND SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

Depending on the year, make, and model, most modern cars are equipped with the following components:

Steering system:

- Steering wheel

- Steering column

- Pinion gear

- Steering rack

- Steering flex coupler

- Inner and outer tie rods

- Steering valves

- Steering hoses

- Bearings and bushings

Suspension system:

- Linkages connecting the chassis to the wheels

- Coil springs

- Shock absorbers

- Strut assemblies or MacPherson struts

- Ball joints

- Control arms

- Steering knuckles

- Sway bars

SIGNS OF WORN OR BROKEN STEERING AND SUSPENSION

Signs of a bad steering system:

- Makes a noise when the car starts or when you turn the steering wheel

- Leaking power steering fluid

- Burning oil smell

- Steering wheel is very stiff or very loose when turning

- Steering wheel is off-centre and not straight

Signs of a bad suspension system:

- Bouncing over bumps

- Steering wheel pulls/drifts to one side

- Vehicle pulls to one side

- Steering wheel vibrates

- When you brake or accelerate, the steering wheel bounces up and down

- Motion is not smooth, steering slips when you turn the wheel

What causes bad steering and suspension?

Wear and tear are the leading cause of damage to a steering and suspension system. Parts and components get weak, rust, and seize. Sudden hits or impacts can damage your steering and suspension. Common issues include the following:

- Uneven tire wear

- Leaking shock absorber

- Cracked coil spring

- Worn-out bushings

- Bad top mount or strut bearing

- Failing control arm

NEED TO FIX YOUR STEERING OR SUSPENION?

Replacement parts and components for steering and suspension systems are typically not included in manufacturer warranties. Inspecting the steering and suspension of your vehicle requires specific tools and knowledge.

At NAPA Auto Parts, we offer technical support, expert advice, and quality replacement parts to maintain, repair, and restore your steering and suspension systems safely and profitably.

Don't wait if you notice any of the signs above and the problem won't go away! Visit a NAPA Auto Parts store near you to have your vehicle inspected by one of our experts. A good suspension and steering system are crucial for your safety.