5 Most Common Signs of Suspension Problems

The suspension of your car is very important. You know that it is designed to absorb the bumps in the road. The level of absorption is generally set by the manufacturer. Harder rides absorb bumps less but give you more feedback regarding what the road is doing. In contrast, softer suspensions absorb all the bumps although the vehicles tend to ‘wallow’ more when cornering.

But, regardless of which type of suspension you have, it is instrumental in ensuring your safety on the road. That’s why you need to be aware of the most common signs of suspension problems. If you notice any then click here and get professional help as quickly as possible.

1. Car Pulls To One Side

You will probably notice this but it is also easy to check. Simply choose a straight section of the road and let go of the steering wheel while keeping your foot steady n the gas pedal. The car should continue in a straight line, although the camber of the road can affect this slightly.

If it doesn’t you have an issue with your suspension, wheel alignment, tires, or brakes. It needs to be checked and rectified.

2. Bumpy

As mentioned, different cars absorb the bumps in the road differently. You will feel more bumps in a sports car than a family saloon or MPV. But, you know your car and the roads in your area. If you start noticing the bumps more then there is a good chance your suspension is starting to fail. It can be an issue with the shock absorbers or the springs are starting to fail.

You will need to get these checked before a suspension strut collapses and gives you a serious headache.

3. Squatting or Nose Diving

If you brake normally and the car dives forward, nose to the ground, or if it leans backward (squats when you accelerate normally then you probably have a suspension issue.

You should note that these are under normal conditions. You would expect nose-diving and squatting when undertaking sharp maneuvers.

Your car may also roll, or lean, more when you corner. This also tells you there is an issue with your suspension.

Don’t forget that damaged or worn suspension will affect the way your car handles and is dangerous.

4. Hard Steering

When your steering becomes hard you may be looking at an issue with your steering pump. This will certainly need to be looked at. However, this can also be a result of suspension issues preventing the other systems in the vehicle from working properly.

As both these systems are critical to the safety of your vehicle it will be important to take immediate action to have the issues rectified.

5. Oily Shock Absorbers

If you take a look at your shock absorbers and notice fluid on the side of them then you are probably looking at oil leaking from the shock absorber. These are usually sealed units, they will need to be replaced.

The longer you leave them the more fluid they will lose until they eventually become completely ineffective.