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Suspension System General Diagnosis Buick Enclave I

Suspension Front 3 illustrations ~1304 words

Trim Height Specifications

ModelRPOTire SizeService PreferredCross Tolerance
D Trim Height - Rear Suspension
R14526QLWP255/65R1882 mm (3.22 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
QCWP255/60R1982 mm (3.22 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
V14526QLWP255/65R1882 mm (3.22 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
QCWP255/60R1982 mm (3.22 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
Z Trim Height - Front Suspension
R14526QLWP255/65R1857 mm (2.24 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
QCWP255/60R1957 mm (2.24 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
V14526QLWP255/65R1857 mm (2.24 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)
QCWP255/60R1957 mm (2.24 in) ± 10 mm (0.39 in)0 ± 10 mm (0.39 in)

D and Z Trim Height

ProgramModelOptionsTire SizeP HeightCross PR HeightCross R
BuickR14526 V14526QPRP245/70R17842 mm (33.14 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)869 mm (34.21 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)
QLW, QUP, QCW, QQDP255/65R18 P255/65R19 P255/55R20853 mm (33.58 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)880 mm (34.64 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)
GMCR14526 V14526QPRP245/70R17840 mm (33.07 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)866 mm (34.09 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)
QLW, QUP, QCW, QQDP255/65R18 P255/65R19 P255/55R20851 mm (33.5 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)877 mm (34.52 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)
ChevroletR14526 V14526QPRP245/70R17848 mm (33.38 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)870 mm 34.25 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)
QLW, QUP, QCW, QQDP255/65R18 P255/65R19 P255/55R20859 mm (33.81 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)881 mm (34.68 in) ± 12 mm (0.47 in)0 ± 12 mm (0.47 in)

P and R Trim Height

Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis

IMPORTANTThe following steps must be completed before using the symptom tables.

Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to the appropriate description and operation

  1. «Front Suspension Description and Operation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-suspension-description-and-operation)
  2. «Rear Suspension Description and Operation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-rear/#rear-suspension-system__rear-suspension-description-and-operation)
  3. «General Description»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__general-description)

Visual/Physical Inspection

  1. Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of any of the suspension subsystems.
  2. Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
  3. Inspect for proper tire size and inflation pressure. Refer to «Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom

  1. «Ride Diagnosis»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__ride-diagnosis)
  2. «Vehicle Leads/Pulls»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__vehicle-leadspulls)
  3. «Body Leans or Sways in Corners»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__body-leans-or-sways-in-corners)
  4. «Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__radial-tire-leadpull-correction)
  5. «Suspension Bottoms»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__suspension-bottoms)
  6. «Torque Steer»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__torque-steer)
  7. «Memory Steer»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__memory-steer)
  8. «Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__noise-diagnosis-front-suspension)
  9. «Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__noise-diagnosis-rear-suspension)
  10. «Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__suspension-strut-and-shock-absorber-testing)
  11. «Wheel Bearings Diagnosis»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__wheel-bearings-diagnosis)
  12. «Trim Height Inspection»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis)

Ride Diagnosis

StepActionYesNo
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2IMPORTANT: Verify the vehicle suspension package RPO. Verify that the ride is too soft or too hard.Does the vehicle ride normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3Check the tire inflation and adjust to specifications. Refer to Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label . Did you adjust the tire pressure?Go to Step 6Go to Step 4
4Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6Go to Step 5
5Inspect the following suspension components for wear or damage: Shock Absorbers-Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Springs Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6
6Drive the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3
IMPORTANT
Verify the vehicle suspension package RPO.

Ride Diagnosis

Vehicle Leads/Pulls

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: At a constant highway speed on a typical straight road, lead/pull is the amount of effort required at the steering wheel to maintain the vehicle's straight path.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the visual/physical inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Road test the vehicle in order to verify the complaint. Does the vehicle operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3Inspect the tire/wheel assemblies for the following conditions: Correct tire pressure-Refer to the tire placard. Correct tire size-Refer to the tire placard. Abnormal tire wear or damage Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 4
4Perform the Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 5
5Inspect and correct/adjust the suspension and steering systems for the following conditions: Vehicle trim height-Refer to Trim Height Specifications . Excessively worn, loose, or damaged components Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 6
6Inspect the brake system for brake drag. With the vehicle suspended on a hoist, brake drag can be identified by rotating each wheel several times and observing whether more force is need to rotate the left wheel or the right wheel. Refer to Disc Brake System Diagnosis . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 7
7Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement . Did you correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 8
8Inspect the steering gear for unequal effort. The vehicle must be suspended on a hoist, the engine running, and the transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL. Grasp the tire assembly and manually simulate a turn from the left of center and the right of center observing whether more force is needed to turn to the left or to the right. If this condition exists replace the steering gear. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3
9Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3

Vehicle Leads/Pulls

Body Leans or Sways in Corners

StepActionYesNo
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Verify the vehicle leans or sways in corners. Does the vehicle operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3Inspect the following components for wear or damage: Rear Coil Springs Front Coil Springs Are the components worn or damaged?Go to Step 5Go to Step 4
4Inspect the stabilizer shaft link for wear or damage. Repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6Go to Step 2
5Replace the springs as necessary. Did you complete the repair?Go to Step 6
6Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3

Body Leans or Sways in Corners

Suspension Bottoms

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: A loud bang or thump that can usually be felt and/or heard when the vehicle is driven over bumps. This condition is commonly noticed when the vehicle trim height is too low.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Verify that the suspension bottoms. Does the vehicle operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3Inspect for vehicle overloading and correct the overloading condition as necessary. Refer to Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label for specifications. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6Go to Step 4
4Inspect the following components: Inspect the shock absorbers. Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Inspect for damaged coil springs, torsion bar or leaf springs and replace as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6Go to Step 5
5Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you complete the trim height inspection procedure?Go to Step 6
6Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3

Suspension Bottoms

Torque Steer

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: On a dry, smooth, flat road, the vehicle has a left or right steering force only during acceleration.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Drive the vehicle on a straight, smooth, flat road. Press the accelerator and determine if any additional steering input is required to maintain a straight ahead direction. Repeat this test with the vehicle traveling in the opposite direction in order to eliminate crosswind effects. Lead/pull caused by unlevel roads and crosswinds are considered normal. Does the vehicle exhibit torque steer when the accelerator is pressed?Go to Step 3System OK
3Drive the vehicle on a straight, smooth, flat road at 64-97 km/h (40-60 mph). Remove your foot from the accelerator. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL in order to allow the vehicle to coast. Is any additional steering input required to maintain a straight ahead direction. Repeat this test with the vehicle traveling in the opposite direction in order to eliminate crosswind effects. Lead/pull caused by unlevel roads and crosswinds are considered normal. Does the vehicle direction change when the steering wheel is momentarily released?Go to Vehicle Leads/PullsGo to Step 4
4Inspect the front suspension and powertrain mounts for worn or damaged components and repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6Go to Step 5
5Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 6
6Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OK

Torque Steer

Memory Steer

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: A lead or pull in the direction the driver previously turned the vehicle. Additionally, after turning in the opposite direction, the vehicle will want to lead or pull in that direction.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Verify that memory steer is present. Does the system operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Lubricate the tie rod ends and the ball joints if applicable. Inspect the suspension system for worn or damaged components. Repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 7Go to Step 4
4Inspect for binding strut bearings. Disconnect the strut from the steering knuckle. If the strut is abnormally difficult to rotate, repair or replace the upper bearing mount. Did you find and complete the repair?Go to Step 7Go to Step 5
5Inspect for binding in the lower ball joints. If joint is binding, replace the joint. Did you find and complete the repair?Go to Step 7Go to Step 6
6Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement . Did you complete the wheel alignment?Go to Step 7
7Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OK

Memory Steer

Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: Any noise emitted from the front of the vehicle that is induced by VEHICLE SPEED or DRIVING TERRAIN as related to the front suspension.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Attempt to duplicate the condition. Road test the vehicle. Did you duplicate the condition?Go to Step 3System OK
3Is the noise reactive to vehicle load or speed?Go to Step 4Go to Step 7
4Inspect the tires for the following condition: Proper tire inflation and adjust as necessary-Refer to Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label . Unusual tire wear-Refer to Vibration Analysis - Tire and Wheel . Inspect the wheel nuts for looseness and tighten as necessary. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 5
5Inspect the front wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 6
6If applicable inspect for front axle or transaxle noises. Refer to the following: Symptoms - Vehicle Symptoms - Automatic Transmission Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 7
7Bounce the front of the vehicle in order to duplicate the noise. Did you duplicate the noise?Go to Step 8Go to Step 9
8Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Inspect the front suspension components for looseness. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Inspect the front suspension components for damage and repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 9
9Install the J 39570 Chassis Ear or equivalent. Bounce the front of the vehicle, using the J 39570 Chassis Ear or equivalent in order to locate the source of the noise. If necessary road test the vehicle. Repair or replace any damaged components as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 10
10Inspect the ball joints and steering components for the following conditions. Lack of lubrication where applicable Looseness in the ball joints-Refer to Front Ball Joint Inspection . Looseness in the tie rods-Refer to Symptoms - Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 11
11Inspect for damaged shock absorbers. Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 12
12Inspect the front stabilizer shaft and stabilizer shaft links for damage and repair as necessary. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement , or Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14Go to Step 13
13Inspect for control arm damage and repair as necessary. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 14
14Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3

Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension

Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension

StepActionYesNo
DEFINITION: Any noise emitted from the rear of the vehicle that is induced by VEHICLE SPEED or DRIVING TERRAIN as related to the rear suspension.
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Attempt to duplicate the condition. Road test the vehicle. Did you duplicate the condition?Go to Step 3System OK
3Is the noise reactive to vehicle load or speed?Go to Step 4Go to Step 6
4Perform the following inspections: Inspect and adjust the tire inflation. Inspect for unusual tire wear. Refer to Vibration Analysis - Tire and Wheel . Inspect the wheel nuts for looseness. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 10Go to Step 5
5Inspect the rear wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 10Go to Step 6
6Bounce the rear of the vehicle in order to duplicate the noise. Did you duplicate the noise?Go to Step 7Go to Step 9
7Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Inspect the rear suspension components for looseness. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Inspect the rear suspension components for damage and repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 10Go to Step 8
8Inspect the rear shock absorber. Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 10Go to Step 9
9Install the J 39570 Chassis Ear or equivalent. Bounce the rear of the vehicle, using the J 39570 Chassis Ear or equivalent, in order to locate the source of the noise. If necessary, road test the vehicle. Repair or replace any defective component as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 10System OK
10Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3

Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension

Ball Joint Inspection (Lower Ball Joint)

Special Tools

J 8001 Dial Indicator Set

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: Ball Joint Inspection (Lower Ball Joint)
Scheme 1: Ball Joint Inspection (Lower Ball Joint)
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. With the wheel and tire on the vehicle, lift the suspension corner by hand to determine if any looseness is present. If vertical free play is experienced proceed with the following instructions.
  3. Remove the wheel and tire. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels__tire-and-wheel-removal-and-installation) .
  4. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seals are damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  5. Install and position the dial indicator from J 8001 Dial Indicator Set against the end of the ball joint.
  6. Gently lift or pry the suspension upward then let it settle.
  7. The dial indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.079 in). If the reading is out of specification, replace the ball joint.

Front Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools

J 8001 Dial Indicator Set

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information__lifting-and-jacking-the-vehicle) .
  2. Clean and inspect the ball joint seal for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seal is damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  3. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension to just below ride height.
  4. Install J 8001 Dial Indicator Set or a suitable dial indicator in a way to measure vehicle lash in the ball joint.
  5. Gently lift or pry the suspension to induce ball joint movement.
  6. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.5 mm (0.020 in), replace the ball joint. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .

Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle

StepActionYesNo
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Verify that the customer's concern is present. Does the vehicle operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
3IMPORTANT: A light film of oil on the top portion of the shock reservoir is normal. Inspect each strut or shock absorber for external fluid leakage.Is a strut or shock absorber leaking?Go to Step 5Go to Step 4
4Use your hands in order to lift up and push down each corner of the vehicle 3 times. Remove your hands from the vehicle. Locate a shock or strut that exceeds 2 cycles. Did you locate shock or strut that exceeds 2 cycles?Go to Step 5Go to Step 6
5IMPORTANT: Inspect the vehicle trim height in order to correct any possible causes of shock/strut failures. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Replace the strut or shock absorber. Refer to Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement , or Shock Absorber Replacement .Did you complete the repair?Go to Step 6
6Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 3
IMPORTANT
A light film of oil on the top portion of the shock reservoir is normal.
IMPORTANT
Inspect the vehicle trim height in order to correct any possible causes of shock/strut failures. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .

Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle

Wheel Bearings Diagnosis

StepActionValuesYesNo
1Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections?Go to Step 2Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
2Install the J 39570 Chassis Ear Chassis Ear. IMPORTANT: A noise heard during left turns is a good indicator of a noisy right wheel bearing. A noise heard during right turns is a good indicator of a noisy left wheel bearing. Road test the vehicle to verify the location of the noise. Drive the vehicle on a smooth road at a moderate speed range. While driving, turn the wheel to the left and the right to apply loads to each wheel corner. Is the noise present at the wheel bearing?48-72 km/h (30-45 mph)Go to Step 7Go to Step 3
3Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Ensure the wheel drive shaft nut is properly tightened. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Are the nuts fastened to the correct specified value?Go to Step 4Go to Step 8
4IMPORTANT: Support the vehicle by the lower control arms or the rear axle to prevent movement during wheel bearing/hub inspection. Mount and secure the J 8001 Dial Indicator to the steering knuckle. Firmly push the hub flange towards the vehicle. Ensure that the dial indicator contacts the vertical surface of the hub as close as possible to the center of the flange. Firmly pull the hub flange away from the vehicle in order to inspect the total travel indicator by the dial indicator. Is the measurement greater then the specified value?0.127 mm (0.005 in)Go to Step 7Go to Step 5
5Inspect for tire or wheel damage. Refer to Tire and Wheel Assembly Runout Measurement - On-Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 6
6Inspect the front and/or rear suspension. Refer to Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension , or Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension . Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 9Go to Step 2
7Replace the wheel bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement , or Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (AWD) , Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (FWD) . Did you complete the repair?Go to Step 9
8Remove the old wheel drive shaft nut and install a NEW wheel drive shaft nut. Tighten to the specified value. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications . Did you complete the repair?Go to Step 9
9Road test the vehicle to verify the repair. Does the vehicle operate normally?System OKGo to Step 3
IMPORTANT
A noise heard during left turns is a good indicator of a noisy right wheel bearing. A noise heard during right turns is a good indicator of a noisy left wheel bearing.
IMPORTANT
Support the vehicle by the lower control arms or the rear axle to prevent movement during wheel bearing/hub inspection.

Wheel Bearings Diagnosis

Trim Height Measurement

Trim height is a predetermined measurement relating to vehicle ride height. Incorrect trim heights can cause the vehicle to bottom out over bumps, damage to the suspension components and symptoms similar to wheel alignment problems. Check the trim heights when diagnosing suspension concerns and before checking the wheel alignment.

Perform the following before measuring the trim heights

  1. Set the tire pressure to the specifications shown on the certification label. Refer to «Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Check the fuel level. Add additional weight if necessary to simulate a full tank. One U.S. gallon of gasoline weighs approximately 6.5 lbs. One liter of gasoline weights approximately 0.70 kg.
  3. Make sure the passenger and rear compartments are empty, except tor the spare tire.
  4. Make sure the vehicle is on a flat and level surface, such as an alignment rack.
  5. For vehicles equipped with automatic level control, ensure the system is functioning properly.
  6. Check that all the vehicle doors are securely closed.
  7. Check that the vehicle hood and rear deck lids are securely closed.
  8. Check for installed after market accessories or modifications that could affect trim height measurement: Larger of smaller than production wheels and tires Lifting or lowering kits Wheel opening flares or ground affects

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: Measuring the Z Height
Scheme 2: Measuring the Z Height
IMPORTANTIn order to obtain the proper measurement, Z will equal inner minus the outer. The left and right Z height difference should be no more than 12 mm (0.47 in).

Use the following procedure to measure the Z height

  1. Lift the front bumper of the vehicle up about 38 mm (1.5 in).
  2. Gently remove your hands and let the vehicle settle.
  3. Repeat this operation 2 more times for a total of 3 times.
  4. Repeat this jouncing operation 2 more times for a total of 3 times.
  5. Measure from the center of the lower ball joint (outer) 2 to the center of the lower control arm bolt (inner) 1.
  6. Push the front bumper of the vehicle down about 38 mm (1.5 in).
  7. Gently remove your hands and let the vehicle settle.
  8. Repeat this operation 2 more times for a total of 3 times.
  9. Re-measure the Z height as in step 5.
  10. The true Z height is the average of the measurements taken in steps 5 and 8. Refer to «Trim Height Specifications»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__trim-height-specifications) .

If any of these measurements are out of specifications, inspect for the following conditions

  1. Worn or damage suspension components
  2. Collision damage

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: Measuring the D Height
Scheme 3: Measuring the D Height
IMPORTANTIn order to obtain the proper measurement, D will equal inner minus the outer. The left and right D height difference should be no more than 12 mm (0.47 in).

Use the following procedure to measure the D height

  1. Lift the rear bumper of the vehicle up about 38 mm (1.5 in).
  2. Gently remove your hands and let the vehicle settle.
  3. Repeat this operation 2 more times for a total of 3 times.
  4. Use the outer flat spot 2 on the knuckle as the reference point for the D height measurement.
  5. Measure from the outer on the knuckle to the center of the lower control arm bolt (1).
  6. The difference between these 2 measurements is the D height.
  7. Lift the rear bumper of the vehicle up about 38 mm (1.5 in).
  8. Gently remove your hands and let the vehicle settle.
  9. Repeat this operation 2 more times for a total of 3 times.
  10. Re-measure the D height as in step 4.
  11. The true D height is the average of the measurements taken in steps 4 and 8. Refer to «Trim Height Specifications»(/buick/enclave/i-2007-2013/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__trim-height-specifications) .

If any of these measurements are out of specifications, inspect for the following conditions

  1. Worn or damage suspension components
  2. Collision damage

Special Tools

Special Tools Illustration Tool Number/Description J 8001 Dial Indicator J 39570 Chassis Ear

See also:
• Front Suspension Description and Operation
• Rear Suspension Description and Operation
• General Description
• Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label
• Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction
• Disc Brake System Diagnosis
• Wheel Alignment Measurement
• Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
• Vibration Analysis - Tire and Wheel
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Symptoms - Vehicle
• Symptoms - Automatic Transmission
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Stabilizer Shaft Replacement
• Lower Control Arm Replacement
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation
• Strut, Strut Component, or Spring Replacement
• Shock Absorber Replacement
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Tire and Wheel Assembly Runout Measurement - On-Vehicle
• Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement
• Ride Diagnosis
• Vehicle Leads/Pulls
• Body Leans or Sways in Corners
• Suspension Bottoms
• Torque Steer
• Memory Steer
• Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension
• Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension
• Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle
• Wheel Bearings Diagnosis
• Trim Height Inspection
• Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
• Trim Height Specifications
• Front Ball Joint Inspection

More articles — Suspension