Your car represents a significant investment that requires proper maintenance to continue running properly—looking after your vehicle is essential to ensure your safety and to prolong the life of your car.
For some, car maintenance can seem overwhelming. However, by seeking help at the first sign of an issue, serious problems can be avoided.
One part of your vehicle that may be overlooked is the suspension. Before diving into the signs, you need suspension repair, learn about the suspension system, and what it does here.
Getting to Know the Role of Your Car’s Suspension System
The suspension system is made up of the tires, springs, tire air, shock absorbers, and components that connect your vehicle to the wheels and allow motion between the two. The suspension is what connects the body of your car to the wheels.
With the proper suspension, the bouncing motion of your car is controlled, which makes your drive more comfortable and manageable. It also helps to protect your vehicle from wear and tear.
No matter how you use your vehicle, eventually, the suspension system will be affected. Driving down gravel or dirt roads uses the suspension system, and so does braking hard or off-roading. Suspension systems are designed to last through several hours of forceful use, during both days to day driving and more extreme conditions.
As mentioned before, eventually, the suspension system will wear. In a more serious situation, the entire system may break. Keeping tabs on this system and ensuring it is working properly is essential.
Some of the signs you may have an issue can be found here.
1. A Rough Ride
One of the most obvious signs your struts or shocks are wearing out is if you start feeling every bump in the road. The bumps may also cause your vehicle to “bounce.”
If you are dealing with a rough ride, there’s a good chance your vehicle’s suspension needs work. It may be time to consider upgrading the suspension with a ridepro suspension kit, too, A mechanic can tell you more.
2. The Vehicle “Nose Dives” When You Stop
Does your car dip or nose further than anticipated when you hit the brakes? If so, this may be a sign of worn shocks.
Be sure to have your vehicle inspected by the professionals right away if this happens. It may make it more difficult to stop if an emergency occurs.
3. Drifting or Pulling When Turning
Another sign of a problem is if your vehicle pulls or drives to one side when you turn a corner. If this happens, it means the shocks cannot keep the vehicle’s body stable. This is another situation that can be dangerous.
If your vehicle can’t remain stable, the chances of a rollover are much higher. Be sure you have it checked out right away.
4. The Shocks Look Damaged or Oily
If you look under your vehicle and examine the struts or shocks, take note if they appear oily or greasy. If so, there is a chance they are leaking fluid.
The problem may get worse, so don’t ignore it. Have a mechanic determine the underlying cause and repair it right away.
5. Uneven Tire Treads
Look at your tires carefully. If the tread is wearing unevenly, or if there are bald spots, it is a sign the suspension isn’t holding your vehicle evenly. This means uneven pressure is being put on each of the tires.
6. Issues with Steering
Does your vehicle feel difficult to steer when traveling at a low speed? If so, it may be a sign of trouble with the suspension.
Your steering is linked to the suspension. If there is a problem, it may be time for a check.
Don’t wait if you are having problems with the steering. It may affect the ability you have to control your vehicle, which is a serious safety concern.
7. The Car Is Lower in One Corner
If you notice this issue, check to see if all your vehicle’s tires are correctly inflated. If this isn’t the issue, there may be problems with the suspension in the part of the car that is lower than the rest.
When this happens, it is a good sign that the suspension is having issues. It is best to get it to a mechanic right away before the problem gets worse.
Tips to Protect Your Cars Suspension System
Make sure you check your vehicle’s owner manual to find the mileage estimate for strut and shock or other suspension system parts lifespan. Based on how often you drive and the conditions of the road you drive on, the average time you should have the struts and shocks replaced is between 60K and 75K miles.
During maintenance, be sure to check the struts and shocks for any signs of leaks regularly. It’s also necessary to pay attention to how your car drives. If you notice it is becoming more uncomfortable and bouncier, take it to have the suspension system checked.
Don’t Wait for Suspension Repair
If you believe your vehicle needs suspension repair, don’t wait. As time passes and you continue to drive, the problem is going to get worse. If you wait too long, the issue may result in having to replace your vehicle’s suspension system completely.
If you are looking for more information about keeping your car operating safely and properly, check out some of our other blogs. We offer accurate and updated information about all makes and models of vehicles, along with common repair needs.