Steering & Suspension Service & Repair
Steering & Suspension Service & Repair
If you feel your vehicle has a steering or suspension problem, Cowichan Auto Repair’ has the latest diagnostic equipment and certified mechanics to determine the cause of your problems.
Does your car dip or rock when you go over bumps or drift around corners even at low speeds? If you answered yes, it may be time to replace your vehicle’s shocks or struts. Regardless of whether your car or truck has shock absorbers or a strut-based system typical in many front-wheel-drive cars, Cowichan Auto Repair’ has the car suspension know-how to diagnose and repair any problem and get you back on the road with a smooth ride.
Rough road conditions don’t just make for a bad ride, they can throw out your wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels can cause a host of problems, including uneven tire wear and dangerous steering conditions. Proper wheel alignment provides safer handling, improves gas mileage, and can help your tires last longer.
Common steering/suspension services include:
Ball Joint Replacement
Inner Tie Rod Replacement
Outer Tie Rod Replacement
Shock Replacement
Strut Replacement
Suspension Inspection
Sway Bar Link Replacement
Wheel Alignment
Our steering and suspension service replaces worn, damaged or missing steering or suspension parts that are not performing as intended. Properly maintaining your vehicle’s suspension helps restore ride comfort and handling performance. It can also save you hundreds of dollars by eliminating premature tire wear. Visit the experts at Cowichan Auto Repair for this and other services to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.
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How do I add a new question & answer?To add a new FAQ follow these steps: 1. Click “Manage FAQs” button 2. From your site’s dashboard you can add, edit and manage all your questions and answers 3. Each question and answer should be added to a category 4. Save and publish.
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I hear a grinding noise when I step on the brakes. Should I be concerned?Whether it’s a squeal or a grind, brake noise means the brake system needs some attention. Bring your vehicle to Cowichan Auto Repair, and we’ll be happy to take a look.
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My brake pedal feels spongy. Why?If you have to press the brake pedal farther or harder than usual to stop, there could be a hydraulic or mechanical brake problem. We suggest you bring your car in for a brake inspection as soon as you can.
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How often should I change my brake fluid?The most accurate answer is as often as your owner’s manual suggests. Some manufacturers recommend new brake fluid as often as every two years. You also need to change your brake fluid if it contains too much copper. Copper is measured in parts per million, and the industry-accepted limit is 200 ppm. Any more than that and the fluid no longer meets design specifications and should be replaced.
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The car pulls to the right or left when I step on the brakes. Why?You may have a hydraulic brake problem, a mechanical problem, or a steering or chassis issue. A thorough inspection will tell us for sure.
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Do I have to change my brake fluid?You don’t have to change your brake fluid, but consider this: When the brake fluid shows signs of high levels of copper content, the additives in the brake fluid are breaking down. This increases acid levels, and causes erosion of parts and possible damage to Anti-Lock Brake System components. Today’s anti-lock brake systems are expensive – some parts cost thousands of dollars, not including labor. Changing your brake fluid protects this investment.
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My car shakes when I hit the brakes. What's going on?It’s possibly a sign that your rotors need attention, but we’ll know for sure once we take a look.
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I only have 15,000 kms on my car and my brakes are squeaking. Do I need new brakes already?Probably not, but whether it’s a squeal or a grind, brake noise means the brake system needs some attention. Bring your vehicle to Cowichan Auto Repair, and we’ll be happy to take a look.
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How long do brake pads and rotors last?All brake pads and rotors wear down. The rate at which this happens depends on your driving style. Cars that drive in town with lots of stop-and-goes will consume brake friction material much faster than cars that drive primarily on highways. Vehicle loads are the other factor. The heavier your car is, the more braking power it requires to stop.