ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairSuspension and SteeringMedium
A technician is inspecting a vehicle's rear suspension with a solid axle. They observe that the leaf springs are sagging significantly on one side, causing the vehicle to sit noticeably lower on that side. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial action for the technician to take?
- AAdjust the vehicle's ride height using adjustable shackles
- BReplace both leaf springs as a set
- CPerform a four-wheel alignment immediately
- DReplace the shock absorbers on both sides
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Replace both leaf springs as a set
Leaf springs are designed to support the vehicle's weight and maintain ride height. If one sags significantly, it indicates a fatigued or broken spring. Because springs work in conjunction and wear together, it's best practice to replace them as a set (both left and right) to maintain proper ride height and balance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Adjustable shackles might temporarily compensate but do not address the underlying issue of a fatigued spring and may lead to uneven handling.
- C. An alignment cannot correct ride height issues and should only be performed after suspension components are repaired or replaced.
- D. Shock absorbers control suspension movement but do not support vehicle weight; replacing them won't fix sagging.
Sagging Leaf Spring Repair
When a vehicle's leaf springs are visibly sagging on one side, indicating fatigue or damage, the recommended repair is to replace both leaf springs as a set to restore proper ride height and suspension balance.
- Leaf springs support vehicle weight.
- Sagging indicates fatigue/damage.
- Replace as a set for balance.
Memory trick: Sagging springs mean 'pair-repair', for a balanced 'rear'.