Common Problems: 

• Shocks and struts can wear out and affect handling.
  If you car bounces excessively over bumps and leans hard in corners,
  your shocks could be warn. Look behind the wheel for the shock or strut
  and look for leaking oil. This is a sure sign of a worn shock or strut. 
• Ball joints. Ball joints wear and can cause your
  car to wander while driving down the road. This is dangerous as they
  can separate and cause you to lose control.

Preventive maintenance:

• Check your shocks or struts for leakage frequently.
  Also pay attention to how your car handles. If you notice the ride deteriorating
  take your car in to have the struts checked. 
• Ball joints should be checked when your car is
  inspected, if not, have your mechanic check them at least twice a year.
• At each oil change make sure you or your mechanic
  lubricates the ball joints and any other suspension components. Some
  components can not be lubricated as they are sealed from the factory

source:www.AutoEducation.com