Steering and Suspension Flashcards

What is the purpose of the caster angle in a vehicle's front wheel alignment?

Answer: To provide directional stability and steering wheel returnability

Caster is the forward or rearward tilt of the steering axis. Positive caster places the steering axis intersection point ahead of the tire contact patch, creating a trailing effect that promotes straight-line stability and helps the steering wheel return to centre.

What symptom does excessive positive camber cause?

Answer: Tire wear on the outside edge of the tire

Positive camber tilts the top of the wheel outward from the vehicle. This concentrates the vehicle's weight on the outer portion of the tire, causing accelerated wear on the outside edge.

What is the function of the stabilizer bar (sway bar) in a suspension system?

Answer: To resist body roll during cornering by transferring force between the left and right suspension

The stabilizer bar is a torsion spring that connects the left and right suspension. During cornering, it resists the unequal suspension travel by transferring force from the compressed side to the extended side, reducing body roll.

What causes a vehicle to pull to one side during braking?

Answer: Unequal braking force between the left and right sides due to a stuck caliper, contaminated pad, or hydraulic restriction

A pull during braking indicates unequal braking force. Common causes include a stuck or seized caliper, contaminated brake pads (oil/fluid on one side), a restricted brake hose, or worn pads on one side.

What is the purpose of the toe alignment setting?

Answer: To control the direction the tires point relative to the vehicle centreline, affecting tire wear and straight-line stability

Toe refers to whether the front edges of the tires point inward (toe-in) or outward (toe-out) relative to the vehicle centreline. Proper toe minimizes tire scrub and wear while maintaining directional stability.

What does a dry park test evaluate in the steering system?

Answer: Worn steering and suspension components by rocking the steering wheel with the vehicle stationary and the wheels on the ground

A dry park test is performed with the vehicle on the ground and the engine running. A helper rocks the steering wheel while the technician visually inspects steering linkage components for looseness and wear.