The suspension system is an essential yet often overlooked component of your vehicle. Beyond ensuring a smooth ride, it aligns the wheels, balances weight, and optimizes the connection between your tires and the road. When your vehicle’s suspension is not performing at its best, you'll feel it in every jolt and swerve.
Key Signs Your Vehicle's Suspension Requires Care:
1. Rough Ride & Feeling Every Bump
If every drive feels like an off-road adventure or you find yourself jolted even by minor road imperfections, it might mean your shocks or struts need replacing. A healthy suspension system should cushion these bumps, ensuring a smooth journey. If that's not the case, it's a clear indication that your suspension isn't absorbing as it should.
2. Bouncing After Bumps
A healthy suspension system will quickly regain composure after a bump. If your car behaves like a trampoline, continuing to bounce several times after hitting a bump, your shocks or struts definitely need a check.
3. Pulling or Drifting While Turning
A stable vehicle will turn smoothly. If your car drifts or pulls away from the direction you intend, this is one of the clear signs your vehicle’s suspension needs attention. This signal is crucial to address as it decreases your ability to control your car, making it a safety concern.
4. Excessive Body Roll
Body roll refers to the side-to-side motion a car makes during a turn. A little bit is normal, but it's called excessive body roll if your car leans dramatically or feels like it's swaying more than usual during turns. This sensation can make it feel like your vehicle is unstable or "rolling" from one side to the other, indicating a potential issue with your vehicle's suspension components.
5. Nose Dives When Stopping
Braking should be a smooth affair. If your car behaves like it's nodding, with the front end dipping when you apply the brakes, it might be a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out.
6. Uneven Tire Treads
Check your tires for tales of a faltering suspension. If you notice uneven wear patterns, it could be a sign that the weight of your car isn't evenly distributed across all tires.
7. Sagging or Lowered Corners
Do a quick visual inspection from the outside. If one corner of your car looks like it's sitting lower than the others, it's a sign of a damaged spring or other suspension component. If you notice this issue, we recommend addressing it immediately before further damage occurs.
8. Oily Shocks
Take a peek at your shock absorbers, typically located behind your car's wheels, within the wheel wells. They are cylindrical in shape and run vertically from the top of the wheel well down towards the ground. If they look shiny or greasy, they might be leaking fluid. This is a surefire sign that your shock absorbers are not working at their optimal capacity and might need replacement.
9. Rocking and Rattling
Your vehicle should glide over bumps - not make you feel like you’re on a seesaw. If your car rocks back and forth after you go over bumps, or it seems to rattle more than it used to, your suspension could be the culprit.
10. Loud Noises Over Bumps
When driving over bumps, does your vehicle sound like an unwelcome symphony of clunks, squeaks, or rattles? If so, this is an indicator that something in your car's suspension system is either loose or worn out.
11. Difficulty Steering
If turning the wheel feels more challenging, or if there's a noticeable delay in steering response, your suspension system may be the culprit. It's advisable to get it inspected.
Your vehicle's suspension system plays a pivotal role in ensuring your drives are smooth and safe. Recognizing the signs your vehicle’s suspension needs attention is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. Quickly addressing suspension issues also enhances your driving experience and extends the health and longevity of your vehicle. If you notice any of the problems above, look to the expertise of Mint Auto’s professional mechanics.
When Signs of Suspension Troubles Arise, Turn to Mint Auto Service
When the roads throw unexpected bumps and curves your way, you want to be certain
your vehicle's suspension system is up to the challenge. Let our seasoned mechanics
bring out the best in your car, addressing all its suspension and repair needs.
Visit any of our two convenient Calgary locations:
Bowness | Westbrook | Southeast