During each maintenance and repair, it is necessary to check the condition of the protective covers of the suspension ball joints, paying attention to the absence of mechanical damage to the covers.
Check for cracks or traces of contact with road obstacles or the body on suspension parts. Pay attention to the presence of deformations of the levers, stabilizer bar and its struts, parts of the front of the body in the places of attachment of units and suspension parts.
The following is not allowed on rubber suspension parts:
- signs of rubber aging;
- mechanical damage.
Pay special attention to mechanical damage (deformations, cracks, traces of contact with road obstacles, etc.) suspension elements, especially levers.
1. In the engine compartment, remove the upper strut mount nut cap.
2. Check the tightening of the shock absorber rod mounting nut.
3. Check the condition of the ball joint protective boots. If the boots are damaged, replace the front suspension arm assembly.
4. Check the ball joints for play. To do this, insert a tire iron between the steering knuckle and the suspension arm and, leaning on the arm, try to rock the steering knuckle.
5. If the ball joints are in good condition, swing the wheels in a vertical plane to make sure there is no play in the bearings. If there is play, replace the bearings.
6. Check the hinges where the lever is attached to the subframe for play. To do this, insert a mounting blade or a large screwdriver into the gap between the front end of the lever and the subframe and try to rock the lever.
7. Check the rear joint in the same way. If there is significant play even in one of the joints, replace the front suspension arm assembly.
8. Check the tightness of the nuts on the lower ball joints of the stabilizer struts.
9. Check the tightness of the nuts on the upper ball joints of the stabilizer struts.
10. Check for play in the ball joints of the anti-roll bar struts. Struts whose joints have noticeable play must be replaced.
11. Check the condition of the rubber cushions that secure the stabilizer bar to the subframe.
12. Check the condition of the shock absorber strut protective cover. Lift the cover and check the shock absorber strut rod. No fluid leaks along the rod are allowed.