Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

Suspension components that are bent, worn, or damaged must be replaced with new parts. Do not attempt to heat, quench, or straighten parts. Bent or damaged suspension parts are often an indication that the vehicle has been in an accident or driven in an abusive manner. When bent or damaged suspension parts are discovered, a thorough inspection of the knuckle, along with the ball joint and steering tie rod ball attachments should be performed. In addition, fastener torque should be checked at the control arm to frame, strut to knuckle, and front lower control arm ball stud to knuckle.