Alignment Specs: 2011-2014 Chrysler 200
When aligning any vehicle, look at the tires to reveal any wear and potential angle problems. Make sure the tires match from side to side. Inspect the lower front ball joints, these are prone to wear out. Also, check the condition of the lower control arm bushings.
Land Rover Tech Tip: 2013-2017 Range Rover With Dynamic Response Suspension
A squeak, creak and/or a knocking noise from the front of the vehicle may be evident when driving over rough terrain. This may be caused by debris contaminating the contact face between the Dynamic Response front stabilizer bar and bushes.
VIDEO: Recommending Suspension Conversion Kits
Andrew Markel discusses options to replace suspension components on vehicles with advanced systems, including using a conversion kit. Sponsored by Monroe Shocks & Struts.
Ride Control And Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
There is a direct connection between the condition of the ride control and electronic stability control. Shocks, struts and springs control patches of the tires and how weight transfers 100 percent of the time. The stability control system measures these vehicle dynamics and defines them as yaw, lateral acceleration and wheel speed. During panic situations when the driver’s inputs do not match the dynamics of the vehicle, the ABS and stability control system kicks in. If the suspension components can’t control the tire’s contact patch, the stability control will have to intervene.
Torque-To-Yield Fasteners For Undercar Components
The desired result of tightening a fastener is to obtain a proper clamping force between parts. The clamping force prevents loosening when the vehicle is in use and external forces act on the clamped parts. All fasteners have a specified torque. The method used for a particular application is determined by engineering and specified in the service information. It is necessary to apply the fastener torque to the specific fastener identified.
Why Did The Alignment Angle Change?
An alignment angle doesn’t change randomly. There is a cause-and-effect relationship between external and internal forces that can alter the geometry of a vehicle’s suspension. Having the alignment reading for only one angle on one corner is just like knowing the temperature without knowing if there is a tornado outside. Just making adjustments and not asking why the adjustments were needed can lead to a comeback. Knowing why the adjustment is required is critical to performing the total alignment.
Steering And Suspension Inspection: Keeping The Angles In Line With Ackermann
Most people consider the common tire rod to be low tech. But, when you consider how front suspensions have evolved from straight axles to independent designs, the tie rod has had to adapt to new angles and geometry.
Electronic Power Steering: More Than Just An Assist
Electric power steering is quickly becoming a standard feature on new vehicles, but it’s not an emerging technology. It’s been in the field for the better part of two decades. Now, electric power steering has continued to advance by making autonomous safety features possible.
Alignment Specs: 2006-2011 VW Jetta & Golf (A5)
Most entry-level VW models featured the same basic suspension used from the advent of the original VW Rabbit. About the only change was from a rear strut suspension to a separate coil spring and shock absorber in the rear. Used for all models of the Golf, Jetta, New Beetle and the Audi TT, this suspension is simple, durable and easy to repair. There is still a beam axle in the rear of pre-2006 FWD cars.
VIDEO: Dynamic vs. Static Ride Height
Andrew Markel details the process of checking for dynamic ride height, and its differences from static ride height. Sponsored by Monroe Shocks & Struts.
Air Ride FAQs
Does air ride scare you? Would you prefer to sell a conversion kit rather than diagnose an air ride code or light? You are not alone. On the surface, these systems can seem complex when compared to metal springs. But, once you understand how the system senses the vehicle’s state and how the air pressure is managed, air ride diagnostics and service won’t seem so overwhelming.
VIDEO: Two Tips For Installing Loaded Struts
Andrew Markel presents two tips for installing loaded struts to make your next installation a breeze. Sponsored by Monroe Shocks & Struts.
