Suspension and Steering Diagnostics Flashcards

A vehicle pulls to the right only during braking. Which is the MOST likely cause?

Answer: A worn lower control arm bushing on the left

A worn control arm bushing lets the wheel shift under braking load, changing alignment and causing a brake-only pull.

When checking a MacPherson strut vehicle for ball joint wear, where should the jack be placed?

Answer: Under the frame so the wheel hangs freely

On MacPherson strut designs the lower ball joint is a follower, so the vehicle is supported by the frame to unload it before checking play.

Technician A says a bent steering arm can cause toe to change incorrectly as the wheels turn (toe-out on turns error). Technician B says a bent steering arm affects caster. Who is correct?

Answer: Technician A only

A bent steering arm changes the Ackermann geometry, so toe-out on turns is affected, but caster is not.

A customer complains of a clunk when driving over bumps at low speed. Which component is the MOST likely cause?

Answer: Worn sway bar end links

Loose sway bar links commonly clunk over small bumps as the suspension moves.

What is the MOST likely result of a weak or sagging rear coil spring?

Answer: Reduced front caster and changed headlight aim

A sagging rear raises the front relative to the rear, lowering effective caster and changing headlight aim.

During a power steering pressure test, the gauge reads below specification with the shutoff valve briefly closed. What does this indicate?

Answer: A defective pump or flow control/relief valve

Low pressure with the valve closed isolates the pump, so the pump or its relief valve is at fault.

A vehicle with electronic power steering (EPS) has heavy steering and a warning lamp on. What should the technician check FIRST?

Answer: Scan for DTCs and check battery voltage

EPS relies on electrical inputs and stores codes, and low system voltage often reduces assist.