It’s easy to forget about the suspension until it starts to create problems. One reason why it is easy to forget about the suspension is that some of the parts don’t need to be replaced for more than 30,000 miles. Plan to have your suspension inspected regularly to make sure that the parts are wearing out. You should have the suspension looked at once a year or every two years.
Bouncy Ride
A bouncy ride is one sign that the suspension needs to be serviced. Specifically, it is time to replace the shocks and struts. These are the suspension parts that are filled with fluid to absorb the road over which you drive. This keeps the passengers in the passenger cabin comfortable.
Leaning/Tilting
Leaning or tilting is also a sign that you need to replace the shocks and struts. The shocks and struts hold your vehicle’s body still so that it does not respond to the momentum of your driving. Consequently, you will feel your vehicle’s body move while you are driving.
Leaking Struts
We talked about the fluid in the struts in the shocks. When both of these parts get too old, the seals that keep the fluid inside of the parts will break. When this happens, the fluid will leak out of the struts and shocks and make them greasy and oily.
Steering Problems
Your suspension is also telling you that it needs some TLC if you are having problems steering your automobile. This can be caused by an issue with the steering system. In addition, if you have a cracked axle, the wheels may fail to respond to your steering commands.
Pulling to the Side
Another thing that makes steering your automobile difficult is misaligned wheels. Unfortunately, if you fly through a pothole too fast, you could knock the wheels out of alignment. This can make your automobile pull to the side when you are trying to drive straight.
Low-Seated Corner
Finally, if you have broken a leaf spring, your vehicle will sit lower on that wheel. In addition, that wheel will clunk when you drive over bumps. It’s important to have the suspension spring replaced as soon as possible to avoid damaging the wheel.
We can do that here at our shop, so call us today to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to help you with your vehicle’s suspension and the rest of your automotive service and repair needs.
