Sep 22, 2020
Suspension systems in cars are designed to maximise the friction between the road surface and the vehicle’s tyre, ensure a smooth and comfortable drive and provide steering stability. They have evolved a lot over the years and today sees some of the most advanced suspension systems than ever before!
However, despite all these improvements in suspensions, problems will still occur from time to time. But how can you tell if something is wrong with your suspension? Here are some common signs of suspension problems you may face in your driving life!
5 signs your suspension needs repaired
Car pulling to one side
Have you noticed your car is pulling to one side while driving? This problem is to do with your tyres, shock absorbers and/or your brakes. Tyres need to be aligned to ensure a smooth drive, so take a look at them to check for uneven wear and to check that they’re correctly inflated as this can impact your stability when driving.
If you have done all the necessary checks above and the problem still persists, you can take a look at your suspension system. Look for signs of wear or damage, and if you’re not too sure what you’re looking for then talk to a mechanic.
Broken springs
Is one side of your car sitting lower than the others? This can be due to a worn or damaged spring, this will also produce a loud noise as you drive over bumps or potholes. Ensure all tyres are correctly inflated beforehand, as this can sometimes be the reason for the car being lower or higher on one side than the others.
If this doesn’t rectify the problem, push your entire weight down on the boot of the car and listen to how your suspension reacts. If it creaks and squeals, you need to get your suspension checked.
Problem with shock absorbers or struts
When shock absorbers begin to wear out, you will notice more bouncing after going over a bump and shaking going over rough roads because they can no longer keep the tyres planted on the pavement. Shocks contain fluid that dampens the bouncing and if they leak, suspension performance will begin to deteriorate.
Steering difficulty
If you have noticed steering is becoming increasingly difficult, especially when you’re driving at low speeds this could mean a problem with steering systems or your suspension. It could be something like a low level of steering fluid, leaking power steering rack or a faulty power steering pump.
Driving when your steering isn’t working correctly is putting both you and other road users at risk, and it is best to get this checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Oily shock absorbers
Check your suspension system at regular intervals and if you notice the shocks or struts looking oily or greasy, there’s a good chance they will be leaking fluid. This means they won’t be working optimally when you need them.
If you’re unsure about checking your suspension yourself, it’s always best to take it to a mechanic. Get quotes from local garages in your area with MyCarNeedsA.com, the easiest and quickest way to get quotes, saving you both time and money! Get your quote today!
