Use current location
At Calderon's Tires, we're known for our tires and wheels, but that's not everything you'll find us working on in the service bay. We can also assist with steering and suspension services, including the installation of lift kits and leveling kits.
The steering system and the suspension system are often grouped together (i.e. "steering and suspension system"), but these are actually separate systems. Due to their interconnected roles in how a car drives and feels on the road, people often refer to these systems as one.
You guessed it! The steering system allows the driver to control the direction in which the vehicle moves. What you might not know are the main parts that make up the steering system in a modern car, which include: the steering wheel, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, and the electric power steering system. The way it works is this: when the driver turns the steering wheel, this action transfers to the wheels, often via a steering shaft connected to a gear assembly. The gear assembly amplifies the force from the steering wheel and directs it to the wheels.
Older or simpler cars might use a direct mechanical linkage known as a rack and pinion system. In these vehicles, turning the steering wheel moves a gear that slides a bar left or right, turning the wheels. Modern vehicles use power steering. Power steering uses hydraulic fluid or electric motors to reduce the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. With hydraulic power steering, hydraulic fluid is pumped into a cylinder when the wheel turns, helping to move the gears and wheels. For electric power steering, the vehicle has electric motors to assist the steering mechanism, providing easier control with less physical effort from the driver.
In all automotive steering systems, subtle adjustments to the steering wheel result in movement of the car's wheels, allowing the vehicle to respond to driver inputs. Steering systems are designed so that the driver can make quick adjustments while maintaining control of the vehicle at all times.
The suspension system is responsible for creating a smooth and comfortable ride for all occupants of the vehicle. The suspension system includes springs, shock absorbers, struts, and control arms. These parts work together to absorb bumps and vibrations from the road, providing stability and control to the vehicle.
Aftermarket suspension modifications are available, such as lift kits and leveling kits, that raise a vehicle's height to achieve a specific look or to allow for additional upgrades that increase off-road performance.
You don't have to take a wild guess for this one. The steering and suspension systems contribute to the safety and performance of a vehicle, so you'll want to keep yours in check. Steering system issues will make it more difficult to control the vehicle while suspension issues can result in a bumpy and uncomfortable ride or other handling issues like vibrations in the steering wheel and difficulty turning.
If you experience the following, reach out to a professional mechanic or auto repair shop:
If you need steering and suspension repairs in San Jose, California, the team at Calderon's Tires is here to help! Our experienced team is dedicated to providing some of the best automotive service in San Jose—like we've been doing since 1982! Give us a call for all your steering and suspension service needs, from repairs to lift and leveling kits. We use high-quality parts for long-lasting results.
Please click anywhere to continue browsing our site.