(707) 584-7727
ASE CERTIFIED28+ YEARS

Steering & Suspension Repair in Rohnert Park & Sonoma County

Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair provides expert steering and suspension repair including shock and strut replacement, power steering service, CV axle repair, and wheel alignment for safe handling on Sonoma County roads.

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(707) 584-7727

Mon-Thu: 7:30am-5pm | Fri: 7am-4pm

ASE Certified
ATRA Member
BBB A+ Rating
Family-Owned Since 1997

Suspension Repair & Replacement

Your vehicle's suspension system absorbs road impacts, maintains tire contact with the pavement, and keeps the cabin comfortable over bumps and uneven surfaces. When shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms, or bushings wear out, you feel it immediately: the ride becomes bouncy, the vehicle drifts in turns, and braking distances increase. On Sonoma County's winding roads through the hills and wine country, a properly functioning suspension is essential for safe handling.

At Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair, we inspect and replace all suspension components including strut assemblies, shock absorbers, coil springs, leaf springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, and bushings. We recommend replacing shocks and struts in pairs for balanced handling and always check alignment after any suspension work that affects wheel angles. Our ASE certified technicians work on all makes and models, from daily commuters to trucks and SUVs that haul heavy loads.

Suspension Repair

Shocks, struts, springs, and complete suspension overhaul

Steering & Suspension Repair

Combined steering and suspension diagnostics

Power Steering Service

Power steering makes turning your vehicle effortless, whether you are parallel parking in downtown Santa Rosa or navigating tight turns on Bodega Highway. When your power steering system develops problems, you may notice a whining sound when turning, stiff steering at low speeds, fluid leaks under the vehicle, or jerky steering response. Hydraulic power steering systems rely on a pump, fluid, hoses, and a rack and pinion or steering gearbox, while electric power steering uses a motor and sensor system.

We service both hydraulic and electric power steering systems including fluid flushes, pump replacement, rack and pinion repair, hose replacement, and electronic steering motor diagnostics. Regular power steering fluid flushes help prevent pump and rack damage by removing contaminants and maintaining proper lubrication. If you hear a groan or whine when turning the wheel, do not wait for it to get worse. Early repair is almost always less expensive than replacing a damaged rack or pump.

Power Steering Service

Fluid flush, pump inspection, and system evaluation

Power Steering Repair

Pump, rack and pinion, and hose replacement

CV Axle & Drive Shaft Repair

CV (constant velocity) axles transfer power from the transmission to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down movement of the suspension and the left-and-right movement of steering. Each CV axle has inner and outer joints protected by rubber boots filled with grease. When a CV boot tears, grease escapes and dirt enters the joint, causing rapid wear and eventually a clicking or popping sound during turns.

Drive shafts perform a similar function on rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, connecting the transmission or transfer case to the rear differential. A failing drive shaft causes vibration at speed, clunking when shifting gears, and in extreme cases can disconnect entirely. We inspect, repair, and replace CV axles, CV boots, U-joints, center support bearings, and complete drive shafts for all vehicle types. Catching a torn CV boot early and replacing just the boot is far less expensive than replacing the entire axle assembly.

CV Axle Repair

CV joint, boot, and axle assembly service

Axle Repair

Front and rear axle diagnosis and repair

Drive Shaft Repair

U-joints, center bearings, and shaft replacement

Motor Mount Replacement

Motor mounts (also called engine mounts) secure the engine and transmission to the vehicle frame while absorbing vibration and preventing engine movement during acceleration and braking. Most vehicles have three to four mounts, and they are typically made of rubber and steel or hydraulic fluid-filled designs for smoother vibration dampening. Over time, the rubber deteriorates, cracks, or separates from the metal, and hydraulic mounts can leak their fluid.

Symptoms of failed motor mounts include excessive vibration felt through the steering wheel, dashboard, or seat, a noticeable clunk when shifting between drive and reverse, visible engine movement when blipping the throttle, and in severe cases, misaligned drivetrain components that can damage exhaust pipes, hoses, and wiring. We inspect all mounts during the diagnostic process and replace worn mounts with quality replacements that restore smooth, vibration-free operation.

Motor Mount Replacement

Engine and transmission mount inspection and replacement

Wheel Alignment & Balancing

Proper wheel alignment ensures your tires make optimal contact with the road, which improves handling, extends tire life, and improves fuel economy. Misalignment causes your vehicle to pull to one side, wears tires unevenly, and forces you to constantly correct the steering wheel. Sonoma County's pothole-prone roads, especially after winter rains, are a common cause of alignment problems.

Wheel balancing addresses vibrations caused by uneven weight distribution in the tire and wheel assembly. Unbalanced wheels cause steering wheel vibration at highway speeds, uneven tire wear, and premature wear on suspension components. We provide precision computerized alignment using the latest equipment, adjusting camber, caster, and toe angles to your vehicle's specifications. We recommend an alignment check after any suspension repair, after hitting a significant pothole, or at least once per year.

Wheel Alignment & Balancing

Computerized alignment, tire balancing, and angle adjustment

Related Services & Resources

Related Service Categories

Helpful Guides

Frequently Asked Questions: Steering & Suspension Repair

What are the signs my suspension needs repair?
Common signs of worn suspension include a bouncy or rough ride, the vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, nose-diving when braking, difficulty steering, clunking or knocking sounds over bumps, and visible fluid leaking from shocks or struts. If you notice any of these symptoms, have your suspension inspected. Worn suspension affects braking distance and vehicle stability.
How long do shocks and struts last?
Shocks and struts typically last 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions and vehicle type. Sonoma County roads with potholes, speed bumps, and winding mountain routes accelerate wear. If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting a bump, bottoms out over dips, or sways more than usual in turns, your shocks or struts may be worn and due for replacement.
How much does power steering repair cost?
Power steering repair costs depend on the specific problem. A simple fluid flush is less expensive than a rack and pinion replacement or power steering pump replacement. Common power steering problems include fluid leaks, whining noises when turning, stiff steering, and intermittent power assist loss. We diagnose the exact issue and provide a transparent quote before any work begins. Call (707) 584-7727 for an estimate.
What are the symptoms of a bad CV axle?
A failing CV axle typically produces a clicking or popping sound when turning, especially during sharp turns or U-turns. Other symptoms include vibration during acceleration, grease splattered on the inside of the wheel or under the vehicle from a torn CV boot, and in severe cases, a clunking sound when shifting between drive and reverse. A torn CV boot should be addressed quickly before dirt contaminates the joint and causes failure.
How often should I get a wheel alignment?
We recommend a wheel alignment check at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, and after hitting a significant pothole, curb, or road hazard. You should also get an alignment after any suspension component replacement. Signs you need an alignment include the vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, a crooked steering wheel when driving straight, and the steering wheel not returning to center after a turn.
How much does strut replacement cost?
Strut replacement costs depend on the vehicle make and model, whether you replace struts on one axle or both, and whether complete strut assemblies or individual components are used. Complete strut assemblies include the strut, spring, mount, and bearing, saving labor time. We recommend replacing struts in pairs (both front or both rear) for even handling. Call (707) 584-7727 for a quote specific to your vehicle.
Is it safe to drive with bad suspension?
Driving with worn suspension components is risky. Bad shocks or struts increase braking distance by up to 20 percent, reduce cornering stability, cause accelerated tire wear, and make the vehicle harder to control in emergency maneuvers. Worn ball joints and tie rod ends can fail suddenly, potentially causing loss of steering control. If you suspect suspension problems, have them inspected before they become a safety hazard.
What causes steering wheel vibration?
Steering wheel vibration can be caused by several issues including unbalanced tires, worn or warped brake rotors, worn suspension components like tie rod ends or ball joints, damaged wheels, or alignment problems. Vibration at highway speeds usually points to wheel balance or tire issues. Vibration during braking typically indicates warped rotors. Our technicians can test drive your vehicle and diagnose the specific cause.

Restore Safe Handling to Your Vehicle

Do not let worn suspension compromise your safety on Sonoma County roads. Our ASE certified technicians diagnose and repair steering and suspension problems with quality parts and warranty protection. Family-owned and trusted since 1997.

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305 Laguna Dr, Rohnert Park, CA 94928Mon-Thu 7:30am-5pm | Fri 7am-4pm