How Do You Know If Your Suspension is Damaged?

Our vehicle’s suspension system is something we often take for granted. However, after supporting several tons of metal year after year, eventually, the shocks will wear out and suspension repair will be necessary. Some people mistakenly believe the suspension is mainly about having a smooth ride, and therefore these repairs aren’t as important as other maintenance issues like oil changes or brakes. However, having a bad suspension can greatly affect your ability to control the vehicle, especially when stopping or turning, so it’s in your best interest not to ignore this part of auto maintenance. Suspension is Damaged Please call us for more info or contact us.

Thankfully, there are some very noticeable signs a suspension shows when it is damaged. The following ways are how you can know if your suspension is damaged:

Rough Ride 

If you feel as if you’re driving a vehicle with square wheels, your suspension could have some damage. Usually, a super bumpy ride is caused by the struts and/or shocks. These suspension parts are designed to absorb the bumps in the road, but if you feel every one, they are probably worn and need replacing.

Unstable Vehicle 

The struts and shocks also keep your car, truck, or SUV’s body stable when you stop, start, and turn. You shouldn’t feel your vehicle rock forward, backward, or sideways when you do any of these things. If you do, this is another sign it’s time to replace the shocks and struts.

Sinking Frame 

If you’ve had your vehicle lowered, then it’s natural for the frame to appear sunken. If you haven’t, or if you notice your vehicle leaning to one tire when it’s parked, you’ve probably broken a suspension spring or springs.

Uneven Tire Wear 

Your vehicle’s suspension includes the wheels and if they aren’t properly balanced or aligned, your tire tread will wear down in patches, scallops, or spots. Uneven tire wear can also suggest that your vehicle suspension isn’t holding the weight of your vehicle evenly, which could indicate any number of issues.

Bounce Test 

Finally, you can test your suspension if you have experienced any of the above signs of trouble. Push down on your vehicle’s front end with all your might a few times and then let it go. If your automobile bounces more than a few times, your struts are worn. Push on the rear to test the shocks.