This page brings together, in one place, the Volkswagen Gol G3 (and G4) front suspension overhaul — diagnosis, disassembly, parts replacement, and assembly — with channel videos showing each step. It also applies to the Parati, Saveiro, and Santana on the same platform (PQ24/PQ25).
Signs of a front suspension problem
- Hard knocks over potholes or speed bumps — loose ball joint, shock absorber bump stop, or control arm.
- Car pulling to one side on a smooth road — lost alignment or a worn part.
- Heavy steering or play in the steering — worn tie-rod ends or ball joints.
- Metallic noise at low speeds in turns — control arm with a torn bushing or a failed strut mount.
- Uneven tire wear — suspension geometry affected by a loose part.
Diagnosis — confirming the problem
Before taking things apart, listen to the car and identify the suspect part:
Front suspension disassembly
Step-by-step guide to the complete teardown:
Reconditioning parts — ball joint, strut towers, etc.
- Ball joint (dust boot replacement and greasing): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaKSUh6wD2M
- Painting the suspension strut towers (part 1): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWRsrc_-w4c
- Painting the strut towers (part 2): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aPilSwnLHs
Complete assembly
How to reassemble the front suspension after the overhaul:
Parts most commonly replaced during an overhaul
- Ball joint (with a new dust boot)
- Tie-rod end
- Shock absorber bump stop / strut mount
- Shock absorber and coil spring
- Control arm bushing
- Stabilizer bar link
Important: after replacing any suspension geometry part (ball joint, tie-rod end, control arm), get the wheels aligned and balanced. Without this, the tire can wear unevenly very quickly and the car may pull to one side.
Informational content based on the channel videos. Check the official manual and the videos before carrying out the work.