For detailed illustrations of the steering and suspension components, begin with the vehicle stopped and the front wheels pointed straight ahead; gently rock the steering wheel back and forth to check for excessive freeplay, which may indicate worn front wheel bearings, a steering shaft universal joint, or issues with the steering gear. Other symptoms like excessive body movement over rough roads, swaying around corners, and binding while turning the steering wheel may suggest faulty steering or suspension components. To check the shock absorbers, push down and release the vehicle at each corner; if it does not return to a level position within one or two bounces, the shocks or struts are worn and need replacement. Inspect the struts and shock absorbers for fluid leakage, ensuring any noted fluid is from the struts or shocks, as a light film is not concerning. Ensure the struts and shocks are securely mounted and undamaged, checking for damage and wear on the upper mounts; if any issues are found, replace the shocks as a set. Raise the vehicle with a floor jack and support it securely on jackstands, then check the tires for irregular wear patterns and proper inflation. Inspect the universal joint between the steering shaft and steering gear housing for lubricant leakage, ensuring dust seals and boots are intact and boot clamps are secure. Examine the steering linkage for looseness or damage, checking tie-rod ends for excessive play, and look for loose bolts, broken parts, or deteriorated rubber bushings. With an assistant turning the steering wheel, check for free movement, chafing, and binding in the steering components. To check balljoints for wear, use a prybar to move each control arm up and down, ensuring no play exists; replace any balljoint that does. Inspect balljoint boots for damage and leaking grease, replacing any damaged balljoints. At the rear, check the suspension arm bushings for deterioration. The CV boots are crucial for preventing dirt and moisture from damaging the constant velocity joints; wash them with soap and water to prevent premature deterioration. Regularly inspect the outer CV boot for wear due to its constant pivoting, checking for tears, cracks, and loose clamps; any evidence of damage or leaking lubricant necessitates replacement.
