Technical 2 cm (3/4") front ride height difference

[torniojaws]

I just measured the ride height from ground to the top of the wheel arch (center) and noticed that the right front is about 2 cm (3/4") higher up (65 cm / 25,5") than the left side (63 cm / 24 13/16"). The rear of the car is even on both sides (66 cm / 26").

Is that expected? The car was empty during the measurement. As I've mentioned a few times, there's still some uneven steering at times on my GP, so perhaps this could be the reason? The springs were bought new and were replaced at the same time.

 

[lamboboss67]

Well, I had the exact same problem a while ago on my Grande, but this was due to the mechanic fitting the wrong spring (he fitted either an MK1 spring or a Punto 2013-18 one). Seeing as you had both springs replaced at the same time, it would have taken the mechanic to use the incorrect spring on both sides, but I suppose it isn't impossible that he used one correct spring and the other incorrect, seeing as the Grande's rear badge just says "Punto" as opposed to "Grande Punto", making it easy to confuse with later and previous models if the mechanic goes by make and model rather than by code.

 

[portland_bill]

Could just be one weak spring, or it may be broken. Often when they break, two coils will sit on each other and continue to work, so have a good look. Don't run hands around it, there might be sharp edges.

Both springs need removing and standing together. Both should be the same height when uncompressed. Even then, one may be weaker. If both the same height, each needs to be put in a press, and the force needed to compress each centimetre recorded. The weak one should show with lower readings. Needs care to prevent escape, but should be easy for the fitter.

Ideally, replace both again, not just the weak one.

 

[DGPunto]

I was thinking springs too - that's what happened when one of mine broke. Worth checking though would be a pain as you've had new ones. Also check they're seated properly the top mounting is shaped to allow the end of the spring to seat, if that's not aligned it would cause a difference. You can see what I mean at 1 minute 8 seconds on this video: Link


Also when the springs were done did you have the top mounts replaced? i.e. these Link

 

[torniojaws]

I was thinking springs too - that's what happened when one of mine broke. Worth checking though would be a pain as you've had new ones. Also check they're seated properly the top mounting is shaped to allow the end of the spring to seat, if that's not aligned it would cause a difference. You can see what I mean at 1 minute 8 seconds on this video: Link

Yup, it sat at the "bottom" of it and the top side (against the top mount) of the spring was the flat part. I supppose it is possible it has shifted for some reason. Didn't drive over any big holes though.

Also when the springs were done did you have the top mounts replaced? i.e. these Link

Yes, both strut assemblies were with brand new parts everywhere.