The pothole season is here again and, frankly, does not seem to go away for very long. So let’s state the obvious - potholes can cause serious damage to your car, particularly to steering and suspension components. The initial impact of hitting a pothole is transferred from the tyre directly to the shock absorber which is designed to absorb impacts but can often bottom out within itself. The shock is then transferred to suspension components such as strut mounts, wishbones , control arms, link rods and ball joints. Damage to these parts can lead to wheel alignment issues affecting  the geometry of the car and cause serious steering problems.

How to avoid a pothole

It’s not always easy to avoid a pothole particularly when the hole is full of water or you are driving at night. One way of avoiding potholes is to leave enough distance between you and the vehicle in front which enables you to see any upcoming craters that will draw in your tyre leading to that expensive bill to put things right.

Vehicle maintenance can help 

Suspension and Steering components should be checked by a qualified mechanic. Steering that is in good condition and responsive can help you avoid hitting potholes , remember that struts , springs and suspension that are in good shape will cushion the blow.

What can FAI offer to help? 

FAI has an industry-leading comprehensive range of steering and suspension parts.  Current developments include an extensive range extension on strut mounts.

To ensure that the garage gets a quality part, all of FAI’s steering and Suspension parts are subject to a rigorous testing programme. For example, ball joints are 100% checked for visual defects and dimensional compliance using laser scanning also, cataphoresis coating is applied to wishbones to protect them from salt spray , water and dirt, increasing longevity.

Is the part strong enough? 

Durability tests, including vertical and pull and push load tests are in place to test the part to destruction. When the garage receives an FAI box they have the confidence that a quality product is inside.

Why should Steering and Suspension parts be replaced in pairs. 

You can replace a rack end, Tie rod end or ball joint on one side only, however….  It is highly recommended to replace both sides. Both parts would have covered the same amount of miles so it is inevitable that the car / van will soon be back in the garage to have the other side replaced. On a more technical view replacing the worn parts on both sides will provide a fully functional and secure Steering and Suspension system. The geometry of the vehicle will be alighned correctly resulting in a safe and comfortable drive for the driver

After any replacement of a steering and suspension part the vehicle should have a four wheel alignment. This ensures correct alignment reducing tyre wear or damage for the future.