When you visit a doctor with abdominal pain, you expect him or her to check more than just your stomach or gall bladder — you expect to get a more holistic approach that checks all your abdominal organs to diagnose the problem as well as spot any dangerous underlying condition that could lead to a serious health issue.
Auto repair technicians should approach the examination of a vehicle's ride-control system in the same holistic fashion, according to the parts industry.
The vehicle's ride-control system — tires, brakes, suspension and steering — work in concert to keep the vehicle on the road and under the driver's control. But if any of those parts is worn down, it negatively impacts the traction on the road and braking distance.
That's why ride control suppliers are encouraging repair shops to give consumers a full undercar inspection and report on their vehicles and alert them when any of those parts are worn and need replacement.
While many shops routinely note tire and brake pad wear and encourage customers to replace such vital parts for safety reasons, they seem more reluctant to discuss the routine replacement of expensive shocks/struts.