Front shock absorber fault diagnostics (Chevrolet Captiva 1)

Insufficient resistance of suspension struts

Checks	Operation, action
Check the air pressure in your tires.	Adjust the air pressure in the tires to the value indicated on the tire data plate.
Check what the vehicle's loading conditions are during normal operation.	Check with the vehicle owner to see if he or she knows the normal loading conditions.
Check the effectiveness of the shock absorber during compression and rebound.	Press sharply on the corner of the bumper closest to the shock absorber being tested, then release. Compare compression and rebound with those of another similar vehicle that has no faults. Replace the shock absorber if necessary.

The racks are noisy

Checks	Operation, action
Check that the fastening points are securely fastened and that there is no damage to them.	Tighten the shock absorber mounting nuts. Replace the shock absorber if necessary.
Check the effectiveness of the shock absorber during compression and rebound.	Press sharply on the corner of the bumper closest to the shock absorber being tested, then release. Compare compression and rebound with those of another similar vehicle that has no faults. Replace the shock absorber if necessary.

Leaks

Checks	Operation, action
Check for any signs of fluid leakage.	The shock absorber is in good condition.
Check the seal cover with the strut fully extended.	Replace the shock absorber.
Check if there is too much fluid in the shock absorber.	Replace the shock absorber.

Inspection of the ball joint

1. Raise the front of the vehicle enough to clear the front suspension.

2. Grasp the tire from the top and bottom.

3. Move the top of the tire inside the wheel well, then move it in and out.

4. Look to see if there is any horizontal movement of the steering knuckle relative to the control arm.

5. Ball joints must be replaced in the following cases:

• There is some play in the hinge.
• The protective cover of the ball is damaged.
• The ball joint pin has separated from the steering knuckle.
• Play in the ball joint pin in the steering knuckle.
• The ball pin can be turned in the socket with your fingers.

Ball joint inspection

Whenever you inspect a ball joint, be sure to check that the ball stud is tight in the knuckle boss. One way to check the ball stud for wear is to shake the wheel while assessing the movement of the end of the stud in the knuckle boss.

Another way to check the ball pin for wear is to check the tightening torque of the lock nut. A loose nut may indicate a deformation of the pin or a defect in the steering knuckle boss.

Worn or damaged ball joints and steering knuckles need to be replaced.

Checking for excessive friction

To check for excessive friction in the front suspension, follow the steps below:

1. With the help of another mechanic, raise the car by the front bumper as high as possible.

2. Slowly release the bumper.

3. Measure the distance from the road surface to the center of the bumper.

4. Press down on the bumper and then release it slowly.

5. Measure the distance from the road surface to the center of the bumper.

6. The difference between the two measurements should be less than 13 mm (0.5 in). If the difference is greater than this limit, check the control arms, struts and ball joints for damage or wear.

(Information taken from the official website: «CHEVYMAN»)