Steering and suspension parts remain some of the most in demand items in the aftermarket as poor quality roads continue to create component problems. Parts supplier febi bilstein specialises in steering components and has issued some useful advice to garages on how to make the most of opportunities in this lucrative sector.

The compnay says it is incredibly important to make sure all steering and suspension parts are set up correctly and in good condition. A worn bushing or an imbalance between the control arms can have severe consequence for drivers such as the vehicle veering off course.

Steering components in particular require special care during their design, production and fitting.

febi bilstein’s steering and suspension range features only OE matching quality components. To ensure that the vehicle holds the road, even in difficult situations, all febi’s steering components are produced to the highest quality standards. febi bilstein’s “Made in Germany” quality seal is a promise of quality and fitting safety, both of which are achieved by high-tech in-house production. All febi steering and suspension parts strictly comply with the specification of the vehicle manufacturers.

The company points out that for steering parts there is zero tolerance for errors. To ensure this, febi parts are produced with modern CNC machines. The material is checked metallurgically and mechanically using various modern testing and monitoring devices.

To ensure quality and safety, febi recommends that garages double check all components of a vehicle’s steering and suspension, as a sign of potential wear on one component could be a symptom of further damage elsewhere. For example;

• Worn or faulty stabiliser links, which improve vehicle stability and overall control when working efficiently, can lead to worn rubber bushings or broken ball joints.
• Faulty or poor quality control arms can cause parts to bend or break when driving over large potholes or speed bumps.
• Anti-roll bars can cause poor handling when incorrectly aligned or when worn.
• Added to this febi alsp points out that steering and suspension is now increasing involved with vehilce electronic systems as technology advances. Reflecting this, febi supply steering sensors for most modern vehicles with active steering.

Febi says that a check of steering and suspension components whenever a vehicle is in the garage is not only sound practice from a driver comfort and safety viewpoint, but also an opportunity for garages to make a little extra profit. Replacing parts at the first sign of wear, rather than once they fail or stop performing at their optimum level also reduces long term cost for the motorist.

Febi also recommends when changing any steering or suspension components on a vehicle, a full 4 wheel alignment check should be performed to make sure tracking is correct. This will increase road holding, safety and reduce uneven tyre wear.

febi bilstein offers an extensive range of replacement parts, including almost 7,000 components for steering and suspension applications.

All full listing of febi steering and suspension parts can be found on the febi Live! online catalogue at www.febilive.com. All febi parts are available from stockists nationwide.