1986 GMC C3500 Suspension Service & Repair

Get Started

Schedule Suspension Services for Your GMC C3500

Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of steering or suspension problems with your 1986 GMC C3500. From shocks to ball joints, your GMC will be in good hands. Schedule an appointment today.

Schedule an Appointment

When To Get 1986 GMC C3500 Suspension Service

When you first bought your 1986 GMC C3500, you probably enjoyed a smooth and steady ride. Lately, though, your ride’s been feeling a little bumpy. Maybe your C3500 jolts, pulls to one side, or makes a weird sound when you drive over a speed bump or turn. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 1986 GMC C3500, bring it in for suspension and steering service. We can pinpoint the source of the trouble.

The technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care will start with a suspension inspection to diagnose your vehicle. We will examine the front and rear end suspension, shock dampeners, damper springs, CV joints and axles, struts, bushings, chassis, axle bearings, and power steering system parts. We’ll get to the source of your car problems and, if steering and suspension service is needed, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost. If parts of your GMC C3500 suspension or steering system need to be replaced because they're worn or damaged, we may also recommend an alignment. Replacing these parts can change the existing ride height and wheel angles.

GMC C3500 Suspension Shocks or Strut Replacement

Your 1986 GMC C3500’s suspension system relies on its shocks and struts to function properly. They influence the control and handling of the vehicle, keeping it from bottoming out. Struts support the structure of the suspension and shocks keep the car from bouncing too much. These components work together to reduce vibration and maintain your car’s height. But there’s no set schedule for getting your 1986 GMC C3500’s shocks and struts replaced since many factors affect how fast and severely they wear. A bouncy ride, swaying from side to side, or rocking forward and backward can all point to issues with your GMC C3500 shocks and struts. It’s a smart move to get your C3500’s shocks and struts regularly inspected by a trusted technician. Schedule an appointment online and visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care.

1986 C3500 Steering & Suspension Questions

  • What role do tire pressure and tread depth play in my GMC's suspension? Proper tire care can reduce strain on the suspension system, and also let you know when it's time to replace your tires. A tire that doesn't have an adequate amount of tread can't grip the road or function as well as the manufacturer intended.
  • Why should my GMC C3500 get regular tire rotations and wheel alignments? Regularly rotate tires and adjust wheel alignment. Alignment and rotation seem like minor services, but they have a major impact on your vehicle. Both services help ensure that the right amount of pressure is being applied to all tires and that the tires connect with the road how GMC intended.
  • When should I have my GMC C3500 power steering fluid checked? Have your power steering fluid inspected every few months or when you get an oil change. If your C3500 is low on power steering fluid, we’ll follow GMC service specifications when topping it off to help your suspension perform smoothly.
  • What can cause my GMC C3500 to have a bouncy ride? Damaged struts or shocks can't dampen road bumps properly, causing your vehicle to feel like a trampoline after each dip or bump.
  • What can cause the front end of my C3500 to dip forward when I apply the brakes? The forward momentum and weight transfer to the front wheels during braking can cause your C3500's front end to dip forward. A damaged or faulty suspension system may fail to distribute the weight and force effectively, causing the front end to dip even more.
  • What are the signs that the shocks on my GMC C3500 need replacing? If your C3500 shock absorbers are worn out, they won’t be able to properly dampen road bumps. You might experience a bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps or rough roads. Your C3500 might also feel like it sways or rolls as you turn.
  • Who can repair my C3500 suspension system? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care inspects, maintains, and repairs C3500 suspension systems. Book an appointment today!