Steering and suspension 34 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 How workshops can keep wear and tear in check When it comes to replacement steering and suspension components, quality really is key as it’s these parts that keep the vehicle under control and ensure a comfortable ride. All steering and suspension components are naturally wearing parts, as they isolate the vehicle from the metalto-metal friction that would otherwise occur without them. However, at some point after clocking up the miles and navigating bumps, potholes and kerbs, the components will need to be replaced. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend inspecting steering and suspension components every 36,000 miles or three years. However, it is advisable to perform checks more frequently whenever the opportunity arises. Interestingly, in common with the heavy demands EVs put on their tyres, due to the vehicles’ greater weight, it is likely that they will be more vulnerable to the universally poor condition of the UK’s roads, and workshops need to be aware of this. Another important safety message for workshops is that even though steering and suspension components wear continuously during normal use, they also wear in unison. However, if a wishbone or stabiliser, for example, is replaced on just one side of the vehicle, it will have an adverse effect on the vehicle’s handling as, in effect, its geometry has been altered on one side and not the other. This can potentially cause problems, so steering and suspension components should be supplied and fitted in pairs. As Dayco is an OE supply partner to many of the world’s vehicle manufacturers, the firm’s steering and suspension components are equivalent in appearance, material composition, weight and construction. They also possess the same handling and performance characteristics as OE parts. Additional benefits of the 3,300 strong Dayco steering and suspension range include a premium quality protective coating for maximum anticorrosion resistance, a two-year unlimited mileage warranty and the convenience that all the auxiliary items required come within the Dayco kit. It has long been a Dayco priority to raise awareness of best practice methods when replacing components, so the company is keen to remind workshops that after new steering and suspension parts have been fitted, and before the vehicle is returned to the owner, it is important that a wheel alignment and tracking check is carried out, plus correct functioning of ADAS systems. For vehicles being repaired following a collision, Dayco also offers complete kits that include the replacement components for both sides of the vehicle. Visit www.dayco.com for details.
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