I just got back from the dealer and it wasn't what I would call productive. The tech did a visual inspection and nothing turned up (tie rods ect). This wasn't a suprise since I had already check it out with another mechanic.

Next we went for a drive and the mechanic immediately noticed that the steering wheel oscilates a couple degrees right/left when hitting bumps. I told him to take some corners at high speed to generate some G forces. He observed that the car goes wide and drifts abruptly when hitting bumps.

Here is his analysis taken from the receipt: "Road tested vehicle vehicle vibrates need to dissasemble suspension to determine any further damage"
Great thanks that helps. That cost me $40!

My ins comapny wants an estimate. What should I do? I told him to write up a hypo-ie if we get in there and everything needs to be replaced it will cost X, but they either weren't willing or able to do it.

Any suggestions or possible causes would be appreciated.

Thanks guys

 

This may be a stupid suggestion, but did any of the people who looked at the car also examine the rear suspension closely and not just the front? You seem to be describing something that sounds like a bump steer condtion, and it could be that something in the rear is messed up.

 

Ask ins. co. for any recommendation and take it there. If you're covered let them pay for it. In NJ if you hit a deer it's not chargeable agiainst your insurance.

 

Next time go deer hunting with a gun, not you car.

 

The rear bushings are shot, but they've been shot for awhile. I actually have the replacement parts but don't want to install them until I know if I need to replace the shocks. Rather do it all at once.

Thanks for the tip about ins....they've been pretty straight forward so far. I haven't formally filed a claim. I was told by my adjuster to get a bill and then consult w them before filing. deer damage is apparently a "comp" item and thus has a lower impact on your rate. I haven't filed a claim in 3 years so I have a reduced rate. If I file this my rates go up 120 a year(b/c I lose the reduction). As a rule of thumb a normal driver files 1 claim every five years. I filed one 4 years ago when a truck tire exploded on the expressway and put 3 dents in the passanger side of my car. With this claim I'll be up to 2, but since it's not collision I should still be able to avoid getting dropped

Neo: or at the very least mount a couple spinning saw blades on the front bumper when driving through CT.

 

I say if it goes to insurance get a nice fat quote from the dealer then buy a nice aftermarket suspension.

Maybe your alignment is just off. I saw on Speed channel one day that oddly enough your alignment can get messed up to where its more noticeable thru turns.

I dont know, suspension isnt my strong point.

Glad to hear you didnt head on with the dear!!!!! It prob would have turned your car into 2D!!!! haha

STEPHEN