Trim Height Specifications (USA)
For description see Trim Height Inspection, refer to Trim Height Inspection .
| Model | Tire Size | P +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | R +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | Z +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) | D +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encore CX/CXL (FWD) | P 205/70R16 | 744 mm (29.3 in) | 773 mm (30.4 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (FWD) | P 215/55R18 | 747 mm (29.4 in) | 775 mm (30.5 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (AWD) | P 205/70R16 | 753 mm (29.6 in) | 782 mm (30.8 in) | 29 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (AWD) | P 215/55R18 | 756 mm (29.8 in) | 785 mm (30.9 in) | 29 mm (1.14 in) | 263 mm (10.35 in) |
| All measurements have a cross tolerance of +/- 10 mm (0.39 in). | |||||
Trim Height Specifications (USA)
Trim Height Specifications Encore
For description see Trim Height Inspection, refer to Trim Height Inspection .
| Model | Tire Size | P +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | R +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | Z +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) | D +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encore CX/CXL (FWD) | P 205/70R16 | 744 mm (29.3 in) | 773 mm (30.4 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (FWD) | P 215/55R18 | 747 mm (29.4 in) | 775 mm (30.5 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (AWD) | P 205/70R16 | 753 mm (29.6 in) | 782 mm (30.8 in) | 29 mm (1.14 in) | 263 mm (10.35 in) |
| Encore CX/CXL (AWD) | P 215/55R18 | 756 mm (29.8 in) | 785 mm (30.9 in) | 29 mm (1.14 in) | 263 mm (10.35 in) |
| All measurements have a cross tolerance of +/- 10 mm (0.39 in). | |||||
Trim Height Specifications (Canada)
Trim Height Specifications Trax
For description see Trim Height Inspection, refer to Trim Height Inspection .
| Model | Tire Size | P +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | R +/- 12 mm (0.47 in) | Z +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) | D +/- 10 mm (0.39 in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trax LS/LT/LTZ (FWD) | P 205/70R16 | 744 mm (29.3 in) | 759 mm (29.9 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Trax LS/LT/LTZ (FWD) | P 215/55R18 | 747 mm (29.4 in) | 762 mm (30.0 in) | 19 mm (0.75 in) | 251 mm (9.89 in) |
| Trax LS/LT/LTZ (AWD) | P 205/70R16 | 753 mm (29.6 in) | 769 mm (30.3 in) | 29 mm (1.14 in) | 263 mm (10.359 in) |
| Trax LS/LT/LTZ (AWD) | P 215/55R18 | 756 mm (29.8 in) | 771 mm (30.4 in) | 29 mm (1.14 in) | 263 mm (10.35 in) |
| All measurements have a cross tolerance of +/- 10 mm (0.39 in). | |||||
Trim Height Specifications (Canada)
Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
Note. The following step 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
- «Front Suspension Description and Operation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system__front-suspension-description-and-operation) .
- «Rear Suspension Description and Operation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-rear/#rear-suspension-system__rear-suspension-description-and-operation) .
- «Tires and Wheels Description and Operation»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-and-wheels) .
Visual/Physical Inspection
- Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of any of the suspension subsystems.
- Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
- Inspect for proper tire size and inflation pressure.
Symptom List
Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom
- «Ride Diagnosis»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__ride-diagnosis)
- «Vehicle Leads/Pulls»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__vehicle-leadspulls)
- «Body Leans or Sways in Corners»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__body-leans-or-sways-in-corners)
- «Suspension Bottoms»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__suspension-bottoms)
- «Ride Diagnosis»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__ride-diagnosis)
- «Memory Steer»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__memory-steer)
Ride Diagnosis
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | IMPORTANT: Verify the vehicle suspension package RPO. Verify that the ride is too soft or too hard.Does the vehicle ride normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Check 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 6 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect 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 | |
| 6 | Drive the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| IMPORTANT |
|---|
| Verify the vehicle suspension package RPO. |
Ride Diagnosis
Vehicle Leads/Pulls
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the visual/physical inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Road test the vehicle in order to verify the complaint. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Inspect 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 9 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Perform the Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect and correct/adjust the suspension and steering systems for the following conditions: Vehicle trim height-Refer to Trim Height Specifications (USA) , Trim Height Specifications (Canada) . Excessively worn, loose, or damaged components Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 6 |
| 6 | Inspect 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 Brake Rotor Thickness Variation Measurement . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 7 |
| 7 | Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement . Did you correct the condition? | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 8 |
| 8 | Inspect 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 OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 9 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
Vehicle Leads/Pulls
Body Leans or Sways in Corners
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Verify the vehicle leans or sways in corners. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Inspect the following components for wear or damage: Rear Coil Springs Front Coil Springs Are the components worn or damaged? | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Inspect the stabilizer shaft link for wear or damage. Repair as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 2 |
| 5 | Replace the springs as necessary. Did you complete the repair? | Go to Step 6 | |
| 6 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
Body Leans or Sways in Corners
Suspension Bottoms
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Verify that the suspension bottoms. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Inspect 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 6 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Inspect the following components: Inspect the shock absorbers. Refer to Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection , for front and Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection for rear. Inspect for damaged coil springs, torsion bar or leaf springs and replace as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you complete the trim height inspection procedure? | Go to Step 6 | |
| 6 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
Suspension Bottoms
Torque Steer
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEFINITION: On a dry, smooth, flat road, the vehicle has a left or right steering force only during acceleration. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Drive 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 3 | System OK |
| 3 | Drive 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/Pulls | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Inspect 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 6 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect the vehicle trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | |
| 6 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | |
Torque Steer
Memory Steer
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Verify that memory steer is present. Does the system operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Raise 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 7 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Inspect 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 7 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect for binding in the lower ball joints. If joint is binding, replace the joint. Did you find and complete the repair? | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 6 |
| 6 | Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement . Did you complete the wheel alignment? | Go to Step 7 | |
| 7 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | |
Memory Steer
Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension
Special Tools
CH-39570 Chassis Ear
Fro equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary Inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Attempt to duplicate the condition. Road test the vehicle. Did you duplicate the condition? | Go to Step 3 | System OK |
| 3 | Is the noise reactive to vehicle load or speed? | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 7 |
| 4 | Inspect 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 14 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect the front wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 14 | Go to Step 6 |
| 6 | Inspect for front axle or transaxle noises. Refer to Symptoms - Automatic Transmission . For the 6T30/6T40/6T45/6T50 automatic transmission , refer to Symptoms - Automatic Transmission For the D16/D20 manual transmission, refer to Symptoms - Manual Transmission Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 14 | Go to Step 7 |
| 7 | Bounce the front of the vehicle in order to duplicate the noise. Did you duplicate the noise? | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 9 |
| 8 | Raise 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 14 | Go to Step 9 |
| 9 | Bounce the front of the vehicle in order to locate the source of the noise, preferably by using the CH-39570 chassis ear or equivalent. If necessary, road test the vehicle. Repair or replace any defect components as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 14 | Go to Step 10 |
| 10 | Inspect the ball joints and steering components for the following conditions. Lack of lubrication where applicable Looseness in the ball joints Looseness in the tie rods - Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 14 | Go to Step 11 |
| 11 | Inspect for damaged shock absorbers. Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 14 | Go to Step 12 |
| 12 | Inspect 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 14 | Go to Step 13 |
| 13 | Inspect 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 | |
| 14 | Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 2 |
Noise Diagnosis - Front Suspension
Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | |||
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Attempt to duplicate the condition. Road test the vehicle. Did you duplicate the condition? | Go to Step 3 | System OK |
| 3 | Is the noise reactive to vehicle load or speed? | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 6 |
| 4 | Perform the following Inspections: Inspect and adjust the tire Inflation. Refer to Tire Inflation Description . 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 10 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 | Inspect the rear wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 6 |
| 6 | Bounce the rear of the vehicle in order to duplicate the noise. Did you duplicate the noise? | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 9 |
| 7 | Raise 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 10 | Go to Step 8 |
| 8 | Inspect the rear shock absorber. Refer to Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle . Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 9 |
| 9 | Install 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 10 | System OK |
| 10 | Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
Noise Diagnosis - Rear Suspension
Ball Joint Inspection
- Raise the front of the vehicle to allow the front suspension to hang free.
- Grasp the tire at the top and the bottom.
- Move the top of the tire in an in-and-out motion.
- Look for any horizontal movement of the knuckle relative to the control arm.
- Ball joints must be replaced under the following conditions: The joint is loose. The ball seal is cut. The ball stud is disconnected from the knuckle. The ball stud is loose at the knuckle. The ball stud can be twisted in its socket with finger pressure.
Ball Stud Inspection
Make sure to check the tightness of the ball stud in the knuckle boss during each inspection of the ball joint. One way to inspect the ball stud for wear is to shake the wheel and feel for movement of the stud end or the nut at the steering knuckle.
Another way to inspect the ball stud for wear is to check the fastener torque at the nut. A loose nut can indicate a stressed stud or a hole in the knuckle boss.
Worn or damaged ball joints and knuckles must be replaced.
Wheel Bearing Inspection
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer's complaint. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Inspect for tire or wheel damage. Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Road test the vehicle to verify the location of the wheel bearing noise. Did you locate the source of the wheel bearing noise? | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 2 |
| 5 | Replace the wheel bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement , or Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Disc Brakes) , Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Drum Brakes) . Did this complete the repair? | Go to Step 6 | |
| 6 | Road test the vehicle to verify the repair. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
Wheel Bearing Inspection
Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Verify that the customer's concern is present. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | NOTE: 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 5 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Use 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 5 | Go to Step 6 |
| 5 | NOTE: 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 | |
| 6 | Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| NOTE |
|---|
| A light film of oil on the top portion of the shock reservoir is normal. |
| NOTE |
|---|
| 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
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis |
| 2 | Road test the vehicle in order to verify the customer's complaint. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Inspect for tire or wheel damage. Did you find and correct the condition? | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Road test the vehicle to verify the location of the wheel bearing noise. Did you locate the source of the wheel bearing noise? | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 2 |
| 5 | Replace the wheel bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement , or Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Disc Brakes) , Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Drum Brakes) . Did this complete the repair? | Go to Step 6 | |
| 6 | Road test the vehicle to verify the repair. Does the vehicle operate normally? | System OK | Go to Step 3 |
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
- 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/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
- Check the fuel level. Add additional weight if necessary to simulate a full tank.
- Make sure the passenger and rear compartments are empty, except for the spare tire.
- Make sure the vehicle is on a flat and level surface, such as an alignment rack.
- Check that all the vehicle doors are securely closed.
- Check that the vehicle hood and rear deck lids are securely closed.
- Check for installed after market accessories or modifications that could affect trim height measurement: Larger or smaller than production wheels and tires. Lifting or Lowering Kits Wheel Opening Flares or Ground Effects
Scheme 1
Measurement Definitions
P Height: The vertical distance from the center of the front wheel to the top of the wheel opening.
R Height: The vertical distance from the center of the rear wheel to the top of the wheel opening.
Use the following procedures to measure the P and R dimensions
- Push the front bumper down a minimum of 38 mm (1.59 in) and release. Perform this step three times.
- Measure and record the trim height per the "Measurement Definitions" above.
- Lift the bumper up a minimum of 38 mm (1.59 in) and release. Perform this step three times.
- Measure and record the trim height per the "Measurement Definitions" above.
- The true P height measurement is the average of the measurements taken in step 2 and 4. Refer to «Trim Height Specifications (USA)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__trim-height-specifications-usa) , «Trim Height Specifications (Canada)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis)
- Repeat the above steps at the rear of the vehicle for the R heights.
Scheme 2
Measurement Definition
The Z Height: The vertical distance from the center of the ball joint cup (1) to the bottom of cradle, center of lower control arm rear bushing mount (2).
The Z Height dimension measurement determines the proper ride height for the front end of the vehicle. There is no adjustment procedure. Repair may require replacement of suspension parts.
Use the following procedures to check the Z height dimension
- Using your hands, lift the front bumper approximately 38 mm (1.59 in).
- Gently remove your hands and allow the vehicle to settle.
- Repeat the jouncing operation a total of 3 times.
- Measure the vertical distance from the center of ball joint cup to the bottom of cradle, center of lower control arm rear bushing mount.
- Using your hands, jounce the front of the vehicle downward approximately 38 mm (1.59 in).
- Gently remove your hands and allow the vehicle to settle.
- Repeat the jouncing operation a total of 3 times.
- Measure the Z height dimension.
- The true Z height dimension number is the average of the high and the low measurements. Refer to «Trim Height Specifications (USA)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__trim-height-specifications-usa) , «Trim Height Specifications (Canada)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis) .
Scheme 3
Measurement Definition
The D Height: The vertical distance from the bolt head center of rear shock absorber lower attachment (1) to the bottom surface of underbody side rail (2), vertically above the shock bolt head.
The D Height dimension measurement determines the proper rear end ride height. There is no adjustment procedure. Repair may require replacement of suspension parts.
Use the following procedure to check the D height dimension
- With the vehicle on a flat surface, lift upward on the rear bumper 38 mm (1.59 in).
- Gently remove your hands and allow the vehicle to settle.
- Repeat the jouncing operation 2 more times.
- Measure the vertical distance from the bolt head center of rear shock absorber lower attachment to the bottom surface of underbody side rail, vertically above the shock bolt head.
- Repeat this task for the other side of the vehicle.
- Using your hands, jounce the front of the vehicle downward approximately 38 mm (1.59 in).
- Gently remove your hands and allow the vehicle to settle.
- Repeat the jouncing operation 2 more times.
- Measure the D height dimension.
- The true D height dimension number is the average of the high and the low measurements. Refer to «Trim Height Specifications (USA)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis__trim-height-specifications-usa) , «Trim Height Specifications (Canada)»(/buick/encore/i-2012-2016/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-diagnosis) .
- If these measurements are out of specifications, inspect for the following conditions: Worn or damaged suspension components Collision damage
Special Tools
Illustration Tool Number/Description CH-39570 J-39570 Chassis Ear
See also:
• Front Suspension Description and Operation
• Rear Suspension Description and Operation
• Tires and Wheels Description and Operation
• Vehicle Certification, Tire Placard, Anti-Theft, and Service Parts ID Label
• Radial Tire Lead/Pull Correction
• Brake Rotor Thickness Variation Measurement
• Wheel Alignment Measurement
• Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection
• Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection
• Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
• Vibration Analysis - Tire and Wheel
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Symptoms - Automatic Transmission
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement
• Stabilizer Shaft Replacement
• Tire Inflation Description
• Fastener Tightening Specifications
• Vehicle Lifting and Jacking Caution
• Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement
• Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Disc Brakes)
• Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement (With Drum Brakes)
• Trim Height Inspection
• Ride Diagnosis
• Vehicle Leads/Pulls
• Body Leans or Sways in Corners
• Suspension Bottoms
• Memory Steer
• Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
• Suspension Strut and Shock Absorber Testing - On Vehicle
• Trim Height Specifications (USA)
• Special Tools
• Wheel Bearings Diagnosis