Checking the condition of the suspension and steering components (Opel Corsa C)

9. After raising the car on a lift or driving it into an inspection pit, visually inspect the suspension and steering components for deformations and mechanical damage. Assess the condition of the sealing cuffs, protective boots and rubber-metal bushings - try not to miss signs of developing leaks (see accompanying illustrations).

13.9a. Check the condition of the protective boots (3) of the steering gear housing

13.9b. Check the condition of the tie rod end boots

10. Check the reliability of the fastening of the nuts of the ball joints, but do not unscrew the nuts. Clean the lower surface of the steering knuckle from traces of dirt, ask an assistant to grab the lower edge of the wheel and pull it in the transverse direction. Try to visually assess the play in the ball joints connecting the knuckle to the suspension control arm. If there is play, the worn joint must be replaced.

11. Grasp the front and rear edges of the wheel, then push down on the front edge and pull on the rear edge. If there is play in the joints of the steering components, check the condition of the tie rod ends (see accompanying illustration). Wear of the outer tips can be detected visually, and wear of the inner tips can be detected by touch through the protective cover of the steering gear (when rocking the wheel). Move to the other side of the car and repeat the procedure by pulling the opposite wheel.



12. More detailed information on the design of suspension components is given in Chapter 10.

13. To check the steering rods for play, before lifting the car, set the wheels to a straight-ahead position and lock the steering column by removing the key from the ignition. Grasp the steering rods from below with both hands and forcefully alternately perform axial (left and right) and rotational movements. In this case, there should be no play in the steering rod joints. Otherwise, replace the corresponding steering rod joint.