What is an effective way to check for a bent strut?

To determine if a strut is bent, comparing the loaded and unloaded camber readings of the two front wheels is particularly effective. Camber refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to the vertical axis of the vehicle. When a strut is bent, it can alter the camber angle of the wheel connected to that strut.

By measuring the camber when the vehicle is loaded (under normal weight conditions) and unloaded (with no load), you can identify discrepancies in the angles. If the camber readings differ significantly between the two scenarios, it suggests that the strut or its mounting may be bent, causing the wheel to sit at an improper angle. This investigation helps pinpoint the issue more accurately, aiding in diagnosing suspension problems.

The other methods, while useful in some contexts, do not directly assess the condition of the strut itself or its impact on wheel alignment. Checking tire pressure is essential for overall vehicle performance but does not indicate strut integrity. Visual inspection for cracks or damage is a good preliminary step, but a bent strut may not display visible signs of damage. Finally, checking alignment settings against manufacturer specifications is crucial for overall vehicle handling but does not directly identify a bent strut unless paired with a detailed camber