What to Expect With a Suspension Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Signs My Shocks or Struts Need To Be Replaced?
Common signs that shocks or struts may be ready for replacement include increased bouncing, a rougher ride, or a feeling that the vehicle is less controlled over bumps. You might notice the front end dipping noticeably when you brake or the rear squatting when you accelerate.
Uneven tire wear, clunking noises over rough roads, or a sensation that the car drifts or sways in turns can also point to worn components. Because other issues, such as alignment or tires, can create similar symptoms, we recommend a professional inspection so our team can pinpoint the exact cause and explain what needs attention.
Is It Safe To Keep Driving If My Car Is Bouncing or Pulling?
If your vehicle is bouncing excessively, pulling to one side, or feeling unstable, it is wise to have it checked as soon as you reasonably can. Worn suspension parts can affect how well your tires stay in contact with the road and may contribute to longer stopping distances or less predictable handling.
In some cases, the issue might be mild and primarily affect comfort, while in others it can have more of an impact on safety. Our team can evaluate the suspension, explain how serious the problem appears to be, and help you decide on the timing for any recommended repairs.
How Do You Decide If I Really Need Suspension Repairs?
We base our recommendations on what we see during a careful inspection and on the symptoms you describe. Our technicians look for clear signs of wear, such as leaking shocks, damaged or cracked bushings, loose or bent parts, and uneven tire patterns that relate to suspension movement.
We then discuss our findings with you in plain language so you can see how they connect to what you feel behind the wheel. If repairs are suggested, we explain why, outline the parts involved, and provide an estimate before any work begins. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make a comfortable, informed decision without pressure.
How Long Does Shocks or Struts Installation Usually Take?
The time required for shocks or struts installation varies based on the vehicle design and whether related components also need attention. For many vehicles, this type of work can be completed within part of a day, although more complex setups or additional repairs may take longer.
When you schedule service, our team can give you a general idea of timing based on your specific vehicle and the work planned. If you need to be somewhere else while your car is in the shop, our complimentary shuttle service can help you stay on top of your day while we take care of the suspension work.
What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Suspension Repairs?
We back our suspension repairs, including work on shocks, struts, and related components, with an industry-leading warranty. This coverage is designed to give you added confidence that the parts and labor on your vehicle are supported beyond the day of service.
The details of the warranty can vary based on the specific work and components involved, so we review them with you when we present your estimate and again when you pick up your vehicle. If you have questions about how the warranty applies to a particular repair, our team is happy to walk through it with you so you know what to expect.
Can I Talk Through the Estimate Before Deciding on Repairs?
Yes, we encourage you to review the estimate with us and ask any questions you have before approving repairs. After we inspect your suspension, we take the time to explain what we found, which items are most important for safety, and what can sometimes wait.
We know that larger repairs can feel like a big decision, so we are careful to break down costs and options clearly. You are never obligated to move forward until you feel comfortable with the plan, and we are always willing to revisit the estimate with you if you need more clarity.
Do You Use Quality Parts for Suspension Work?
We use manufacturer-quality equipment and components for our suspension work because we know how important these parts are for safety and comfort. That approach helps support proper fit and performance, and it works hand in hand with the training our ASE-certified technicians receive.
During installation, we pay attention not only to the main part being replaced but also to related mounts and hardware so the system can work as designed. After repairs are complete, we test drive the vehicle to confirm that everything is operating smoothly before returning it to you. Our warranty coverage further reflects the confidence we place in the parts and workmanship used on your vehicle.
Schedule Your Suspension Check
If you are concerned about how your vehicle rides, handles, or sounds, scheduling a suspension check is a practical next step. Our team will listen to your concerns, inspect key components, and explain what we find in clear terms so you can decide how to move forward. Whether you end up needing a minor adjustment or more extensive suspension repair in Waunakee, we work to make each visit straightforward and respectful of your time.
When you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive Waunakee, you get the benefit of ASE-certified technicians, manufacturer-quality equipment, and an industry-leading warranty, all grounded in a commitment to honesty and neighborly care. With convenient appointment options and shuttle service, we strive to keep your day on track while we focus on helping your vehicle drive safely and comfortably again.
To schedule your suspension evaluation or ask a question about your vehicle, contact us online or call (608) 912-3848.
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FAQs
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Q. "How do I know if my suspension needs service?"Signs that your car needs suspension service include braking problems, abnormal noises, and excessive bouncing. If you are experiencing any of these problems, we recommend getting your vehicle looked at by our professional technicians.
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Q. "What is the difference between shocks and struts?"While one of them will be found in every one of your vehicle’s tires, a vehicle will either have a shock or a strut at each wheel, never both. A shock cannot be used to replace a strut and a strut cannot be used to replace a shock. Which one does your vehicle have? Depends on the make and model. Learn more here.
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Q. "How often should I have my suspension system looked at?"We recommend that you have it looked at once a year or every 12,000 miles along with your regular scheduled maintenance. If you want to learn more about signs that your suspension is worn click here.
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.