GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Road Test Vehicle

Road test vehicle. This gives clues to the condition of components in steering and suspension systems.

Tires

Inspect tires for wear and proper inflation pressure.

    • Both tires on axle have about the same wear.
    • The wear pattern across the tire
        This is very helpful in diagnosing alignment and steering/suspension problems.

Front Suspension

Inspect the steering/suspension systems. Alignment angles cannot be set accurately if steering or suspension systems are worn or damaged.

    • Inspect the suspension/steering components for wear or damage.
    • Inspect to see if the frame is bent.
    • Inspect the front stabilizer bar bushings for wear or damage.
    • Inspect the lower control arms for worn ball studs, worn bushings, or bent arms.
    • Inspect the steering gear for wear or damage.
    • Inspect the inner and outer tie rod ends for wear or damage.
    • Inspect the wheel bearing for looseness.
    • Inspect the bumper height. Height must be within specifications before setting alignment.
    • Inspect the strut assemblies for oil leaks, looseness, wear, binding or dents.

Rear Suspension

    • Inspect the components for wear/damage.
    • Inspect the rear axle control arm.
      • Are the bushings worn?
      • Are the arms bent?
    • Check rear suspension support.
      • Are the bushings worn?
      • Are the links bent?
    • Inspect the bumper height. Height must be correct before setting alignment. If not, are carrier assemblies leaking, worn, binding, or bent?
    • Inspect the rear stabilizer bar.
      • Are the bushings worn or missing?
      • Is the bar bent?