This month, we’re going to have some Nissans on the lift addressing suspension noises and brake complaints. At first, you may not think these systems are closely related, but when it comes to noise and vibration complaints, you don’t want to be looking at one without considering the other. Before we get too deep into the nuts and bolts, we have to start at the beginning. And that’s at the service desk.

While we all enjoy the sounds that our customers make while trying to emulate the abnormal noises being emitted from their vehicle, the best way to find the problem is to go on a road test with the customer. Many times, things like a wheel bearing noise, long brake pedal travel and struts that can no longer dampen the spring happen gradually and the driver will become used to hearing the noise or the way the brakes or struts feel. Often, just pointing out the problem will be the first step to some profitable work. This isn’t upselling the job; our clients expect and appreciate that we recommend needed maintenance — it’s part of providing quality service.   

The modern Nissan, like so many cars today, uses a simple suspension system that shouldn’t present much o...