Telltale Signs Your Suspension Is Going Bad

A vehicle’s suspension is complex because it is comprised of the sum of many parts, as we discussed in our last article.

That said, there are some significant signs your vehicle communicates when one or more parts of your suspension is breaking down.

This article covers ten of the most prevalent problems a suspension experiences, so if you’re experiencing one or more of these it’s a good idea to take your car to your mechanic. Doing so will ensure your safety, and also help catch any suspension issues before they get worse.

Let’s get started looking at the telltale signs your suspension is in need of some help …

1. IT HAS BECOME TOUGH TO STEER

Has your steering wheel become unsteady?

This could be a sign of a suspension issue, so if your steering wheel isn’t performing like it used to — for instance it feels loose, stiff, and/or shaky, it could be related to a suspension issue.

2. YOUR VEHICLE IS PULLING TO ONE SIDE

Before getting this issue checked out by a professional, we advise that you first check the tire pressure (PSI) of all four tires, as one (or more) low-pressure tires can cause vehicle pull, as well.

If your tires are properly inflated, and the car is still pulling, there is a good chance your wheels are out of alignment, or some other issue with the suspension is occurring.

3. VISIBLE, UNEVEN TIRE WEAR

We see a good share of customers whose tires present cupping (scoops or dips) and ridges (tread pattern issues). This is another telltale sign that your suspension may be failing.

Again, this could be happening because of improper tire pressure, but if you’re noticing this type of wear on your tires — and the pressure has been monitored and kept healthy — it’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked out for suspension issues.

4. BOUNCING

If you go over a speed bump, uneven road, or hit a pothole, and your vehicle “bounces,” unless you’re going unusually fast, this can be warning sign of a failing suspension. Commonly, the part of the suspension affected is the springs, shocks or struts.

5. WEIRD NOISES

If your vehicle is making strange noises like knocking, squeaking or clunking, there’s a good chance one or more parts of your suspension is failing.

6. SHOCK & STRUT LEAKAGE

If you’ve ever backed out of your garage, only to see a fluid leak on the floor, your shocks or struts could be leaking.

Not to be confused with an oil leak (which would form a puddle in-between the tires, shock/strut leakage occurs in the area near tires.

7. VEHICLE LEAN

If your automobile is looking lopsided — in other words, one corner or side is sitting below the rest of the vehicle, you may have a damaged spring or springs.

8. DIPS & DIVES
When you break, if you feel the front end of the car dive, dip or squat, it is likely that your suspension is failing. Alternatively, dipping can also occur on the rear end of the car with normal acceleration. If you’re experiencing either type of dip, your shocks or struts may need replacing.

9. EXCESSIVE SWAYING

Out of the ordinary swaying or body roll on curves means your suspension is no longer stabilizing your vehicle, and it’s a clear sign to bring your car in for inspection.

10. HITTING BOTTOM

If any part of your chassis is coming into contact with the road, even on the slightest of bumps (referred to as bottoming out), this means there’s a good chance one or more of the signs above went ignored or unnoticed, as bottoming out is typically a culmination of many suspension issues.

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Have questions about your suspension, or anything else about your vehicle? Feel free to contact us anytime! In addition, you can schedule a service online by clicking on the “Request Appointment” button in the navigation above.