New Level Auto Service repairs steering and suspension systems at our shop at 716 E Gude Dr in Rockville, MD. We work on power steering, rack and pinion, tie rod ends, struts and CV axles. If the steering feels heavy or loose, or the car clunks over bumps, call (301) 762-1200.
- ASE-certified mechanics
- 20+ years of experience
- Licensed MD inspection station
- All makes and models
- Se habla español
Signs of a steering or suspension problem
- The steering feels heavy or stiff. Low power steering fluid, a weak pump or a failing rack can make turning the wheel harder than it should be.
- A whining noise when you turn the wheel. That’s a common sign the power steering pump is running low on fluid or wearing out.
- The steering feels loose or wanders. Worn tie rod ends or other steering joints can let the car drift and make you correct it constantly.
- Clunking over bumps. Worn struts, mounts or suspension joints often make a knock or clunk on rough roads and speed bumps.
- The car bounces or dips when you brake. Worn struts and shocks don’t control the body well, which also makes braking and cornering less stable.
- Clicking when you turn. A clicking sound during tight turns often points to a worn CV axle joint.
How power steering works
Except for some hybrids and electric cars, most vehicles use a hydraulic power steering system. A pump pushes pressurized fluid to a piston inside the rack and pinion, which helps turn the front wheels through the inner and outer tie rod ends.
- Power steering pump and fluid
- Rack and pinion
- Inner and outer tie rod ends
- Struts and strut assemblies
- CV axles
- Suspension joints and mounts
The fluid sits in a reservoir, either on the pump or mounted nearby. When the fluid runs low, steering gets harder and both the pump and the rack can be damaged, so checking the level and fixing leaks early saves money.
Steering, suspension and the MD inspection
Steering and suspension parts are checked during the Maryland State Inspection. We’re a licensed inspection station, so if something comes up, we can fix it here in the same shop.
Recent suspension work at our Rockville shop
A recent job from our shop at 716 E Gude Dr: a new front lower control arm going in.
A new front lower control arm installed on a customer’s car. 
Tightening the mounting bolts on the new control arm. 
The new control arm in place below the CV axle.
Why Rockville drivers bring their cars to us
New Level Auto Service is owned by Christian, a mechanic with more than 20 years of experience. The shop has been in Rockville for over 10 years, and our mechanics are ASE certified.
- 20+ yrsHands-on experience behind the owner
- 10+ yrsServing drivers in Rockville
- ASECertified mechanics
- EN / ESWe speak English and Spanish
Steering and suspension FAQ
Why is my steering wheel hard to turn?
The most common causes are low power steering fluid, a leak, a failing power steering pump or a worn rack and pinion. We check the fluid and the system to find which one it is.
What does a clunking noise over bumps mean?
It usually means something in the suspension is worn, like a strut, strut mount, sway bar link or ball joint. It’s worth getting checked, because worn parts can affect handling and braking.
How do I know if my struts need to be replaced?
Signs include a bouncy ride, the front end diving when you brake, clunking over bumps, fluid leaking from the strut, or uneven tire wear. We can inspect them and show you what we find.
Is it safe to drive with a bad tie rod end?
It’s not a good idea. A worn tie rod end makes steering loose and, if it fails completely, you can lose steering control on that wheel. Get it checked as soon as you notice looseness or clunking.
Do I need an appointment for steering or suspension work?
Walk-ins are welcome. Calling ahead at (301) 762-1200 usually gets you in faster.
Bring your car in
New Level Auto Service, 716 E Gude Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead gets you faster service.
- Phone (301) 762-1200
- Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM
- Extras Night drop available and 24-hour emergency towing
- Payment Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
