AUTO 104 - Suspension and Steering Level 1

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 5

1. Diagnose and complete Level 1 ASE Education Foundation tasks as listed below:

A. Research vehicle service information such as fluid type, vehicle service history, service precautions, technical service bulletins, and recalls including vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

B. Identify suspension and steering system components and configurations.

C. Retrieve and record DTCs, OBD monitor status, and freeze frame data; clear codes and data when directed.

D. Disable and enable supplemental restraint system (SRS); verify indicator lamp operation.

I. Steering Systems related Tasks:

A. Inspect rack and pinion steering gear tie rod ends (sockets) and bellows boots.

B. Inspect power steering fluid level and condition.

C. Drain and replace power steering system fluid; use proper fluid type per manufacturer specification.

D. Inspect for power steering fluid leakage.

E. Remove, inspect, replace, and/or adjust power steering pump drive belt.

F. Inspect, remove, and/or replace power steering hoses and fittings.

G. Inspect pitman arm, relay (centerlink/intermediate) rod, idler arm, mountings, and steering linkage damper.

H. Inspect tie rod ends (sockets), tie rod sleeves, and clamps (non-rack and pinion).

I. Inspect electric power steering system.

II. Suspension Systems related Tasks:

A. Inspect upper and/or lower control arms, bushings, and shafts.

B. Inspect and replace rebound/jounce bumpers.

C. Inspect track bar, strut rods/radius arms, and related mounts and bushings.

D. Inspect upper and/or lower ball joints (with or without wear indicators).

E. Inspect suspension system coil springs and spring insulators.

F. Inspect torsion bars and mounts.

G. Inspect and/or replace front/rear stabilizer bar (sway bar) bushings, brackets, and links.

H. Inspect, remove, and/or replace strut assembly, strut coil spring, insulators, and upper strut bearing mount.

I. Inspect components of suspension systems (Coil, Leaf, and Torsion).

J. Inspect components of electronically controlled suspension systems.

III. Related Suspension and Steering Service related Tasks:

A. Inspect, remove, and/or replace shock absorbers; inspect mounts and bushings.

B. Inspect front and rear wheel bearings.

C. Describe the function of electronically controlled suspension and steering systems and components, (i.e., active suspension and stability control).

IV. Wheel Alignment related Tasks:

A. Perform pre-alignment inspection; measure vehicle ride height.

B. Describe four-wheel alignment angles (camber, caster, and toe) and effects on vehicle handling\tire wear.

V. Wheels and Tires related Tasks:

A. Inspect tire condition/age; identify tire wear patterns; check for correct tire size, application (service-class, load, and speed ratings), and air pressure as listed on the tire information placard/label.

B. Rotate tires according to manufacturer's recommendations including vehicles equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS).

C. Dismount, inspect, and remount tire on wheel (with/without TPMS); balance wheel and tire assembly.

D. Inspect tire and wheel assembly for air loss; determine needed action.

E. Repair tire following tire manufacturer approved procedure.

F. Identify indirect and direct tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS); calibrate/relearn system; verify operation of instrument panel lamps.

G. Demonstrate knowledge of steps required to remove and replace sensors (per OEM/sensor manufacturer) in a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

H. Perform Road Force balance/match mounting.