The steering linkage and the suspension parts should also be inspected after certain periods as damaged or rusty parts usually cause odd wearage of tires, poor comfort of the ride and low fuel efficiency. To inspect the shock absorbers one ought to park the car on a level surface, switch off the engine, apply the handbrake. Ensure the tyres are well inflated and then compress a corner of the car and release and it should not rebound more than once or twice. If it's still in motion and does not assume its natural position or if it remains so, it may be so worn out that it requires replacement of its shock absorber. Perform this check on all corners and then lift the vehicle on jack stands with the air suspension switch off if equipped with the Automatic Ride Control. Check the fluids on the shock absorbers stating that any noted on them is from the shocks. Look for proper installation, and security as well as signs of abuse, if any, replace them in pairs. When it comes to the behavioral checks of the steering and suspension, look out for signs of damage, leakage or distortion of the components. Wipe the steering knuckle and have a partner articulate the tyre by wiggling the tyre to check at the ball joints; once the ball joints move, then they need replacement. Pick one of front tires and take hold in front tires and check the play in the steering linkage tight the mounts if necessary, check the ball joints for wear and tear. For front, refer to play or noise for wheel bearings, louder and more obvious on the 95 and later 4wd models which contain sealed hubs. Finally, examine the drive axle boots in 2001 and later 4WD vehicles for tears, cracks or even loose clamps and to check for leaks try to flex it; any single damage among them requires the checking of joints or boots.
