During a suspension service, your certified NAPA AUTOPRO technician will run through various inspections and any necessary part replacements to ensure your comfort, safety, and control while on the road.

Depending on the current condition of your suspension, your service appointment may include:

• a full visual and physical suspension component inspection
• shock absorber and strut replacement
• control arm and bushing replacement
• ball joint inspection and replacement
• sway bar and end link service
• wheel alignment following any suspension repairs, since even new parts won’t perform correctly if the geometry is off

A professional suspension service catches problems that may not be obvious to the naked eye and can provide peace of mind for a safe and smooth ride.

Proper diagnosis of many suspension issues requires skilled expertise. Worn bushings and ball joints may look fine visually but play a significant role in your vehicle’s handling and safety. That means physically checking components, not just eyeballing them for issues.

Some repairs also carry real risk. Working with coil springs, which store significant mechanical energy, requires specialized tools and training to do so safely. Trying to remove or install these parts without the proper tools can place you and those around you at risk. For example, an improperly compressed spring can release suddenly and cause serious injury.

By taking your vehicle to a NAPA AUTOPRO location to inspect your suspension, your technician can cover a variety of services in one visit. They’ll thoroughly inspect, repair, and perform a post-repair wheel alignment in one appointment, ensuring everything works together properly.

There isn’t a universal mileage interval for suspension components, as wear and tear will depend on driving conditions, road quality, and vehicle type. For example, abrupt turning, harsh braking and acceleration, potholes, gravel roads, and frost heaves can take a toll on your suspension system. Vehicles that experience accelerated wear and tear due to constant stress, like heavy-duty trucks or off-road vehicles, tend to require more frequent suspension service.

If you’re unsure, ask your NAPA AUTOPRO technician to inspect your suspension components at every regular maintenance visit. Canadian winters and springs, when potholes tend to appear, are the ideal time to book an annual inspection and catch issues as soon as possible.

If you notice any potential suspension symptoms, don’t wait for them to get worse. Catching a worn bushing early is far less expensive than replacing multiple components later.

Finally, book a suspension service after any significant impact, including a large pothole, curb strike, or accident. Even if nothing feels wrong, you may be able to catch a small problem before it escalates to a larger repair.

A well-maintained suspension means a smoother, safer, and more confident drive. If you can’t remember your last annual vehicle maintenance service, then it’s probably time to book one. Trust your NAPA AUTOPRO certified technician to expertly inspect your suspension system before small issues turn into costly repairs. Find your nearest NAPA AUTOPRO service centre and book your appointment today at napaautopro.com.