Signs Your Vehicle’s Suspension is Bad

Your vehicle’s suspension is extremely important. The suspension supports the body of your vehicle and helps you maintain control on the road. There are many different components that make up the suspension, including the wheels and steering system. Postle Tire Barn wants to caution you that problems with your suspension might actually cause an accident. Here are signs that your suspension might be in bad shape and in need of repair.

Low-Sitting Corner

Suspension springs are part of the strut assembly or shock absorber system. If you notice that one corner of your automobile is sitting lower than the rest, you’ve likely broken a suspension spring. It’s possible you may have heard a loud clunk when you drove over a bump recently. If this is the case, then the problem points to the spring even more. In fact, if you have a broken spring, you will continue to hear the clunk every time you drive over a bump. Sound familiar?

Momentum Movement

The struts and shocks in your vehicle’s suspension are designed to prevent the motion that is caused by your automobile’s momentum. In other words, they help prevent your car body from dipping forward when you stop. They also prevent the body from falling backward when you accelerate. Finally, they keep the vehicle from leaning when you turn around corners. Basically, they’re what gives your vehicle a smooth ride.

Noticeably Bumpy Ride

If you notice any usual movement from the momentum of your vehicle, such as a very bumpy ride, your shocks and struts probably need to be replaced. Some vehicles have both shocks and struts; other vehicles have just struts while older vehicles may only have shock absorbers. Either way, these suspension parts wear down eventually due to age and use and can no longer absorb the bumps in the road. This can make for a very uncomfortable ride.

Oily Shock Absorbers

Oil on the shock absorbers is another sign that the shocks are going bad. This is an internal fluid from within the shock absorber that is leaking out. You can reach up and touch your shocks to see if there is any oil on them. You can also use a flashlight to inspect them. If you see a shiny fluid on the shocks, they are leaking oil and they need to be replaced.

Pulling to the Side

One of the most common signs of suspension problems is that your vehicle is pulling to one side, i.e. your vehicle veers to the right or left when you take your hand off of the steering wheel. This likely means that your wheels are out of alignment. Correcting the wheel alignment usually corrects the problem. *Note: Irregular tire wear or incorrect tire pressure can also cause your vehicle to pull to one side. Best to let a professional check it out for you.

Steering/Control Difficulties

Finally, if you find it difficult to control your automobile or steer it, you definitely have a problem with the suspension or steering system that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. Don’t continue to drive your automobile if you’re having difficulties controlling it.

Contact Us

If you are experiencing any of the above suspension issues with your vehicle, bring it by Postle’s and let us inspect your vehicle for you. We offer free inspections and written estimates so you can decide how best to proceed. Postle Tire Barn: Great Prices and No BULL!