Aftermarket April 2022

Above: Meyle HD steering and suspension parts W hile the growth of EVs continues to dominate automotive headlines, Dayco’s National Sales Manager, Steve Carolan wants to remind the sector that basics like steering and suspension systems continue to evolve, so keeping up with tech means keeping up with everything: “With all the publicity surrounding the growth of EVs, it’s worth remembering the fact that irrespective of the powertrain, all vehicles rely on steering and suspension components to drive smoothly and safely. In addition, due to the generally poor state of the UK’s road network, damage due to potholes, speed humps and aggressive curbs, is an ongoing issue, as it’s these parts that generally take the brunt of an impact with any of these obstacles. “It has long been a Dayco priority to raise awareness of best practice methods when replacing components, which is why we’re keen to highlight the importance of replacing steering and suspension components in pairs.” Steve added: “This is an important safety message, because even though these items wear continuously in normal use, they also wear in unison and although that does gradually affect steering performance and ride quality, it’s obviously not noticeable to the occupants day-to-day. However, if a wishbone or stabiliser for example, is replaced on just one side of the vehicle, it can have an adverse effect on the vehicle’s handling as its geometry has been altered on one side and not the other, which can potentially cause problems.” For more information, visit: www.dayco.com 42 AFTERMARKET APRIL 2022 STEERING AND SUSPENSION www.aftermarketonline.net With technology moving forward and demands changing, steering and suspensions systems are being adapted. Make sure you stay ahead too Availability 2022 is the 30th anniversary of First Line’s steering and suspension range. Commenting on the occasion, Jon Roughly, Global Marketing Director at First Line said: “When First Line introduced its steering and suspension programme back in 1992, the 1,000-reference portfolio led the way in providing a comprehensive offer for aftermarket professionals. Since then, the range has continued to grow considerably, and in 2021, First Line achieved a new milestone with its largest, most pertinent range in the aftermarket, with more than 9,100 references available.” He continued: “Availability of product is core to the company’s service offering and with an average of 96% availability across its entire product portfolio consisting of 40,000 references, First Line’s commitment and forward planning paid off during these unprecedented times. However, it is times like this that distributors really get to value the service offered by a longstanding credible supplier, and with a range like steering and suspension being critical for keeping a car on the road, availability is king and is something First Line has consistently been able to deliver. The range is constantly under review. To recognise the need to meet ongoing demand, new product is regularly added on a monthly basis, ensuring distributors are able to access parts for the very latest models when they hit the aftermarket.” For more information, visit: www.firstlineltd.com Enhancement Meanwhile, MEYLE has been commemorating the BOUNCE INTO THE SPRING