Troubleshooting Troubleshooting – Suspension and Steering Estimated reading: 2 minutes Contributors Overview This guide provides troubleshooting steps for diagnosing and resolving suspension and steering issues specific to the Porsche 944 S / S2 (16v, 1989–1991). The S / S2 variant features late-model alloy control arms, which differ from earlier steel control arms used in pre-1985.5 models. Proper diagnosis is critical for maintaining the S / S2’s handling performance and safety, addressing issues like vibrations, abnormal tire wear, or pulling to one side. Pink and blue text represents links to additional resources, tools, parts, and partner websites. Vibration or Shake During Driving Possible Causes, Checks, and Procedures Possible Causes Checks Procedure Wheel alignment Have alignment checked by a wheel/alignment shop. N/A Tire or wheel out of balance Have balance checked by a wheel/alignment shop. N/A Worn ball joints or tie rods Check ball joints and tie rods for excessive play. Ensure compatibility with S2 alloy control arms. N/A Loose or worn wheel bearings Check and adjust wheel bearings as necessary. SUSP-08 Knock or Thump from Rear End Possible Causes, Checks, and Procedures Possible Causes Checks Procedure CV Joint Remove axle, inspect CV joint, and repack with fresh grease. SUSP-01 Transaxle If CV joints are not the issue, have a transmission shop diagnose potential transaxle bearing problems. N/A Vehicle Pulls to One Side Possible Causes, Checks, and Procedures Possible Causes Checks Procedure Wheel alignment Have alignment checked by a wheel/alignment shop. N/A Uneven tire pressures Check pressures and adjust if necessary. N/A Front brake dragging Raise each side of the vehicle and spin the front wheels to check for brake drag. N/A Worn strut or shock absorber Check ride heights from side to side for equal height (measure from ground to highest point on wheel well). N/A Abnormal Tire Wear Possible Causes, Checks, and Procedures Possible Causes Checks Procedure Wheel alignment Have alignment checked by a wheel/alignment shop. N/A Tire or wheel out of balance Have balance checked by a wheel/alignment shop. N/A Worn ball joints or tie rods Check ball joints and tie rods for excessive play. Ensure compatibility with S2 alloy control arms. N/A Loose or worn wheel bearings Check and adjust wheel bearings as necessary. SUSP-08 Sources Clark’s Garage Pelican Parts Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals YouTube Troubleshooting – Suspension and Steering - PreviousTroubleshooting – Manual TransmissionNext - Troubleshooting – Suspension and SteeringTroubleshooting – Electrical (including Instruments)
