Suspension issue

Tiny
NASER NASER
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 MERCEDES BENZ C230
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 108,000 MILES
Something is loose/worn out up front, whenever I step on the brakes it shakes, not the same shake as when the rotors are wrapped, and I know Benz has issues with suspension, raising each front wheel and wobbling it side to side gives free play, can't pinpoint to which it is, whether it is a ball joint, lower control arm, or anything else, whenever my helper moves the steering slightly while raised I hear the play, if the free-play is at the 3 and 9 vs 6 and 12, what is the problem usually?
Saturday, December 14th, 2019 AT 4:05 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

When you feel play from left to right (3 to 9), most likely it is related to a tie rod end. There is an inner and outer on both sides. If you look at pic 1, I circled both. I = inner O = outer. In the center the two screw together.

In pic 2, I highlighted the inner so you can get a better idea of how it is attached. At the right end you will see threads where the sleeve that attaches the two together. At the other end, the left, is where it goes into the rack and pinion.

When you move the wheel back and forth (3 - 9), check both ends to see if that is where the play is located. Let me know what you find and I[ll give you directions for replacement.

Take care,
Joe
Images (Click to make bigger)
Thumb
Thumb
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, December 14th, 2019 AT 7:44 PM
Tiny
NASER NASER
  • MEMBER
  • 836 POSTS
Ya and aware, but how do I know it's the inner when I can't see it with the boot on?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, December 14th, 2019 AT 7:50 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
You will see play without the outer moving or the steering. I usually have someone move the wheel while I hold my hand on it. That way I can feel if there is a clunk or movement.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, December 14th, 2019 AT 10:33 PM
Tiny
NASER NASER
  • MEMBER
  • 836 POSTS
That is what I felt just wanted to make sure. Thanks
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, December 15th, 2019 AT 6:26 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Happy to help. Let me know if you need anything.

Take care,
Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, December 15th, 2019 AT 5:21 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.