Now that winter is over, maybe (considering these wild fluctuations of heat and cold), and road crews are out filling potholes, you might want to consider taking a look at the suspension and steering on your vehicle. Midwestern winters are particularly rough on automobiles and, this past winter, probably more so than most.

“Winters in northern Illinois can really play havoc on your car’s chassis,” said Denny Norton, owner of Ringwood based Performance Unlimited. “Even if your car was recently aligned, if you hit the wrong pothole, the wrong way, you’re right back where you started from or worse.”

Norton said that potholes and bumps in the road can damage various parts on the chassis and throw the steering out of whack. Both are bad news for vehicle owners.

“It’s not just that you car won’t handle as well,” said Norton. “It can also affect your gas mileage and, worse yet, can put you and your family at risk while driving.”

Paul Smith, owner of Cary based Smith & Associates, Inc., insurance services, agrees with Norton.

“As much as 10 percent of auto accidents can be traced to mechanical failure,” Smith said. “Brakes, tires, bearings, tie-rod ends: all these cause accidents when they malfunction or break.”

Smith said that tire failure is the most common cause of automobile accidents. However, Norton pointed out that damage to a car’s suspension and steering can lead to tire damage, including premature and irregular wear.

“Drivers should have their car’s chassis and steering inspected every spring,” he said. “It’s a good idea to check the alignment, too.”

A car’s front end is aligned to provide proper tracking of the tires and to ensure that the steering operates at the optimal level. Proper alignment extends the life of tires and frontend components. In the process, it ensures the car is handling well and gives the driver the best opportunity to avoid an accident.

Norton said that there are several signs of a front end that has problems – whether with components or alignment.

“If the car is pulling to one side or the other, or if you feel a pulsation in the steering wheel, that’s a good sign that something is wrong,” he said. However, he added that, from the driver’s perspective, it’s not always apparent when something in the steering or suspension needs attention.

He said drivers can have the chassis looked at when they bring their car into a repair shop for scheduled maintenance, such as an oil change.

“It doesn’t take long to check out the chassis,” Norton said, “But, it could be a life saver.”

To learn more about Performance Unlimited, or to schedule an appointment, call 815-728-0343 or visit: www.4performanceunlimited.com.

To learn more about Smith & Associates, Inc., insurance services, call 877-766-8552 or visit: www.saiinfo.com.