Lubricating a Car’s Suspension and Steering: Key Things to Know

The steering and suspension systems in a car work together to ensure control, comfort and safety while cruising. Ball joints, centre links, struts, tie rods and shock absorbers, among several other components, play an imperative role in maintaining a vehicle’s drivability. Any friction or rigidness between these moving parts can impact the overall driving experience. Therefore, regular maintenance and lubrication are necessary to timely inspect and prevent any potential issues.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to lubricate the steering and suspension parts in a car safely and appropriately.

How to Lubricate Steering and Suspension Parts in a Car: Step-By-Step Process

We have divided the entire process of lubricating a vehicle’s suspension and steering components into multiple steps. To get started, let’s first make a list of the necessary tools for the greasing process.

Important Tools for Lubricating the Steering and Suspension Systems

The following pieces of equipment are required to properly lubricate the steering and suspension parts of a vehicle:

• Wheel chocks
• Creeper or cardboard
• Jack stands
• Hydraulic Jack
• Grease gun
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Rags

Step 1: Lifting the Car

• The first step in lubricating the steering and suspension parts in a car involves lifting it with the help of a hydraulic jack.
• Some cars have a distinct marker or a cut-out to indicate the safe jacking points located near each wheel. However, if there are no such markings, consult the owner’s manual for the proper jack point locations. 
• Using the recommended jacking points is crucial to securely jack up a vehicle and prevent accidents during under-car servicing. Once the jack is in the proper position, place wheel chocks in front and behind at least one or both rear wheels. 
• Now, gradually lift the car until the tyre loses contact with the ground. After the tyre is lifted in the air, find the lowest point underneath the car to place the jack stands.
• Make sure to choose a sturdy spot for placing the jack stands. For instance, a cross-member or chassis can effectively support the car’s entire weight. 
• When the jack stands are properly positioned and ready, lower the car onto them using the hydraulic jack. 
• Don’t lower the jack completely. Keep it in a heightened position as backup support in case the jack stand fails or slips. Whenever there’s a need to maintain a car’s suspension system, keep this tip in mind to safely lift the vehicle.

Step 2: Greasing Up the Components

• Before starting to lubricate the steering and suspension parts of a car, gather all the necessary tools. Grab a mop and grease gun, and slide under the vehicle using a creeper or cardboard. Look around for serviceable parts with grease fitting to effectively lubricate the steering system.
• Inspect the steering and suspension assemblies and spot all of the car parts that need lubrication to avoid any potential suspension problems.
• Each side of the car usually has an upper and lower ball joint and an outer tie rod end. The driver’s side may also have a pitman arm and centre link, while the passenger side may have an idler arm, supporting the centre link. 
• When servicing the driver’s side of the car, it is easier to access the centre link grease fitting on that particular side.
• There are different types of car suspension systems. In some cases, it may require removing the wheel and tyre assembly to reach ball joint grease fittings. Thus, for proper removal and reinstallation of these critical components, check the owner’s manual for the necessary instructions. Make sure to follow the process carefully to avoid any car suspension damage.
• To properly lubricate the steering and suspension parts, pay attention to the rubber boots around them. Don’t overfill them as they may burst. Overfilling could cause the rubber boots to rupture and the grease to escape.
• It is pertinent to mention that some components are designed to allow some grease to escape when they are full. Typically, it only takes a few good squeezes of the grease gun trigger to provide the right amount of grease to each component. 
• Repeat this process with each part to effectively lubricate the suspension system, taking care not to overfill any of them.
  Once each component is properly oiled-up, put back the car onto the hydraulic jack, remove the jack stands and safely lower it back to the ground. Greasing up the parts may also solve the problem of sounds coming from the steering wheel while turning.

Step 3: Lubricating the Rear Suspension System (If It Has Serviceable Parts)

Not every car has a rear suspension system with serviceable components. Vehicles that come with an independent rear suspension system may have parts that need lubrication, but that should also be confirmed first. 

• Check with the local auto parts experts if a car has serviceable rear suspension parts before jacking it up for service. 
• If a vehicle does have serviceable components in its rear suspension system, follow the step-by-step process discussed above to safely inspect and oil up the parts.

Here we’ll end our step-by-step guide on how to lubricate a car’s steering and suspension parts. Even though the process is easy, it has to be carried out with proper tools and techniques to avoid any hazards. 

Looking for professional help? Check out these car repair centres in the UAE and pick a workshop that offers the maintenance and repair services you need.

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