Lubricate Suspension Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your suspension lubrication service? Use Mymechanic to get a fair cost estimate for your suspension lubrication service..
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How much does it cost to lubricate a suspension system?
To lubricate your car’s suspension system, the cost will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
How long does it take to lubricate a suspension system?
For most vehicles, a suspension system lubrication typically takes about 1.5 hours. However, the total time may vary based on the service location, wait times, and the volume of vehicles being serviced.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do I need to lubricate my suspension system and how much do those parts cost?
When preparing to lubricate your suspension system, you will need the following parts:
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Grease gun:Grease guns are used to transfer lubricant from the cartridge to various parts of your suspension system, including your ball joints, via grease fittings. Grease guns can be either corded or battery-operated.
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Automotive grease:When it comes to suspension grease, there are a few different types, including synthetic, heavy-duty lithium, and silicone. Silicone can handle various temperatures, whereas most experts recommend synthetic or heavy-duty. To determine which grease is right for your vehicle, refer to your owner’s manual.
You can buy suspension lubrication parts for your car from various auto parts stores and online retailers. When it comes to automotive grease, it's recommended to select options suitable for your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
For suspension system lubrications, OEM products are often considered the best option. These products are designed by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and are specifically tailored to fit various vehicles. They typically come with NLGI grease that can be multi-purpose, high temperature, or extreme pressure.
Similar to ball joint lubricants, there are also a variety of suspension greases available. To determine the right fit for your vehicle’s suspension, refer to your owner’s manual.
Third-party companies design and produce aftermarket parts to fit a wide variety of vehicles. They often come at a lower price point compared to OEM parts but are available in budget, premium, and performance options. Aftermarket parts can be a great choice for older cars and drivers seeking to save on repair costs—just ensure to verify the part number to ensure compatibility with your vehicle.
To lubricate your suspension system, you will need a grease gun and the appropriate grease. Suspension system lubrication and grease guns can be purchased both in-person and online from various auto repair and auto body shops, as well as from online sellers. Grease guns can also be found at in-store retailers.
Where can I get my suspension lubricated?
Car repair costs, no matter how small, can quickly add up—and when you’re on a budget, finding the right mechanic most of the time comes down to quality over quantity. But not with Mymechanic.
Mymechanic uses real hourly rates to gather fair price cost estimates* on over 2,500 mechanics in Malaysia. Using this data, Mymechanic can also give you approximate diagnostic fees (and let you know if they’re included in the service fee), all while providing you with real reviews from real customers to help you prepare for your suspension lubrication.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic lubricate my suspension system?
Once you take your vehicle in for a suspension system lubrication, your mechanic will first inspect your car’s suspension system for corrosion, as well as your steering system. Then, they will likely follow these steps to complete a suspension system lubrication:
- Lift your vehicle:Using jack stands, your car will be lifted off the ground so your mechanic can readily access your suspension system and diagnose any potential issues.
- Secure the wheel:Next, your vehicle's steering wheel is secured by positioning blocks in front of and behind both of your rear wheels. Then, a jack will be positioned under the lowest point of your car for additional support.
- Lubricate steering and suspension:As your steering and suspension systems work hand in hand, it’s important to lubricate both. Serviceable parts include the outer tie rods, struts, pitman arm, idler arm, and ball joints. Your mechanic will apply grease to the rubber boots around each of these components.
- Remove excess grease:Once all grease is applied, your mechanic will carefully remove any excess grease. Leaving behind surplus grease can lead to damage to your bushings and may be difficult to rectify.
- Lubricate rear suspension:If necessary, your mechanic will then proceed to lubricate the rear suspension. The same process and steps will be followed for serviceable parts such as joints, bearings, rods, and more.
What happens if I don’t lubricate my suspension system?
Failure to lubricate your suspension system at the required intervals can lead to severe internal damage, including:
- Loss of control
- Faulty steering
- Increased risk of accidents
What is a suspension system lubrication?
Your vehicle’s suspension system allows your car to navigate rough terrain smoothly while ensuring control. Comprising ball joints, center/drag links, u-joints, control arms, sway bars, and more, your suspension is crucial to your car’s functionality. Regular lubrication of these components ensures your vehicle operates at optimal performance and extends its overall lifespan.
When should I perform a suspension system lubrication on my car?
A suspension system lubrication should ideally occur at least twice a year or as recommended in your owner’s manual. However, if you experience any of the following common symptoms, it might be necessary to lubricate your suspension system sooner rather than later:
- Loud squeaking:Hearing loud squeaking sounds from underneath your car when you hit a bump or pothole may indicate that something in your suspension system isn’t functioning properly, or that it requires lubrication. Typically, these sounds can be attributed to parts (such as ball joints) rubbing together, creating friction. If left untreated, this friction can lead to premature wear.
- Bumpy riding:If your suspension system isn’t functioning properly, your drive may feel rough instead of smooth. This could result from worn parts or components that require lubrication for optimal performance.
- Groaning while turning:Parts like ball joints assist your vehicle in completing turns, and if they require attention, you may hear indications while turning corners. If you notice groaning noises, it's advisable to contact a mechanic or inspect your suspension once you've safely reached your destination.
How often should a suspension system be lubricated?
Manufacturers typically recommend greasing your suspension twice a year. Adhering to this schedule ensures that your suspension components—such as upper and lower ball joints, rubber bushings, and driveshaft—are maintained in optimal working condition.
The overall duration for a suspension lubrication may vary depending on the vehicle's make and model. You can refer to your owner’s manual for specific information relevant to your vehicle.
Can I lubricate the suspension system myself?
Yes, you can lubricate your own suspension system. However, it's important to note that performing a suspension system lubrication involves more complexity than working on a single component and requires a mid-level to intermediate understanding of suspension parts. If you're uncertain about your DIY skills, it's advisable to seek assistance from a mechanic.
FAQs
To ensure a smoother ride, it's advisable to perform regular maintenance and inspections on your suspension system. By conducting routine checks, you can identify any worn or corroded parts and determine if they require greasing.
No, WD-40 should not be used on suspension systems because it can contaminate the rubber in some suspension components. When lubricating your suspension system, always use a suspension lubricant or grease specifically designed for automotive use.
