A car’s suspension system helps provide a smooth ride by absorbing the impact of bumps and potholes in the road. Many drivers care about their tires and brakes, but the suspension often gets overlooked. They wait until the system is about to fail, and that’s when they experience severe problems and need to get suspension repair done from an auto repair shop.
There are several signs which can help you determine whether your car’s suspension system requires some attention or not. By being proactive and getting the system repaired or replaced in time, you can avoid expensive repairs and maintain your vehicle’s safety.
7 Signs That Your Car Needs Suspension Repair
The suspension system is made of different parts, including springs, shock absorbers, and control arms. Over time, these components can wear out and need to be repaired or replaced. Here are a few indications that indicate your car needs suspension repair:
1. Uneven Tire Wear
Tires wear evenly, but if you notice that the tread is wearing out more on one side than the other, it could be a sign that your car’s suspension isn’t working properly. It causes the tire to tilt inwards or outwards, resulting in premature and uneven wear. Irregular patterns on tire treads will result because they bear more weight and pressure than they should.
Remember, there could be a problem with steering or alignment that leads to uneven tire tread, so it’s best to get the vehicle checked by a professional and know the real cause of the issue.
2. Rough Ride
A well-functioning suspension system will ensure a smooth ride by absorbing the impact of bumps. But if you find that your car is bouncing too much or vibrating when driving on smooth roads, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong with the suspension.
Every time you strike a pothole or bump, the car shakes and vibrates, making it harder to focus on the road ahead. A rough ride only sounds like an inconvenience, but it can be dangerous, as it makes it difficult to control the car. Instead, find a reliable suspension system and increase your ride quality.
3. Drifting When Turning
The suspension system helps to keep the car stable when making turns. However, if you begin to notice that the car is drifting to one side when making a turn or has difficulty steering, the suspension system components are likely worn out.
The leading cause of this problem is worn-out shocks or struts. When they’re not functioning properly, it’s a sign that your car needs auto repair. The vehicle loses hold on the road and makes it hard to control. In some cases, it can also lead to the car flipping over.
4. Nosedive When Braking
Have you experienced the feeling of the car lurching forward and then jerking to a stop when you brake? It’s called nosedive, and worn-out shocks or struts cause it. The suspension system might be terrible if your car is experiencing this problem.
If you can’t stop the car in time, it could lead to a hazardous situation. Driving on highways could be catastrophic if the driver in front of you suddenly brakes.
5. Oil on Shocks or Struts
The shocks and struts of the car are filled with oil to help keep them functioning properly. If you notice oil leaking from these components, it’s a sign that they’re damaged. The seal might be broken, which is causing the oil to leak out.
This will result in a decrease in performance and can cause the shocks or struts to fail. It demands an immediate replacement as it can cause serious problems while driving. Bismarck auto repair shops are experienced in handling such problems. Take your car for an inspection as soon as possible.
6. Failing the Bounce Test
One of the simplest ways local auto mechanics check if your car needs suspension repair is by doing the bounce test. First, they firmly push down on one corner of the car and then let go. The vehicle should only bounce once and then return to its original position. If the car reflects multiple times, there is a problem with the suspension. They repeat the test on all four corners of the car to be sure.
If they realize that the car is not passing the bounce test, they might ask you to bring the vehicle in for a more thorough inspection.
7. Leaning to One Side
Another sign that your car needs suspension repair is when it starts to lean to one side. Step away from the car and take a look at it from the front and back to know if one side is shorter than the other.
This problem can be caused by several things, including a broken spring, air leaks, or even worn-out shocks. It’s crucial to fix this issue as soon as possible as it can cause the car to lose balance.
Final Thoughts
The suspension system is integral to the car as it ensures a smooth ride. It needs to function properly to keep the car stable and prevent accidents. If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to take your car for a suspension check.
Be sure to bring your car to a reputable and experienced auto repair mechanic in North Bismarck, ND, so they can properly diagnose the problem. They will know what needs to be done to fix the suspension and ensure your car is safe to drive again.
