There’s a lot to be said for having a vehicle that rides smoothly. Not only is it much more comfortable, but it is much safer. In addition, suspension problems can lead to other issues with wheels, tires, brakes and drive train components. The health of your vehicle’s suspension is very important.
Components of Your Suspension System
There are three main components of a suspension system. First, you have the springs, which are most commonly found in coil form. Some older cars might have leaf spring systems and some custom vehicles may have been outfitted with air-ride suspension systems. However, the springs are configured, they are there to help absorb bumps and maintain a consistent vehicle drive height.
In addition to the springs, you have shocks (shock absorbers) and struts, which are actually two different components. You may hear them talked about interchangeably, but most cars will have either shocks or struts. Occasionally, you’ll find a vehicle with front struts and rear shocks. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with your own vehicle’s suspension system, so you can better understand what maintenance will be required.
Signs of Suspension Issues
There are a few ways you can tell that you might have a suspension problem. If you notice any of these issues, bring your vehicle into Fox Run Auto for a complete inspection and suspension repairs.
1. Vehicle Not Riding Smoothly
This is a problem that’s easy to notice and it’s the most common sign of a suspension issue. If it seems like you are feeling every bump on the road and the car bounces/vibrates a lot, there is likely something wrong with your suspension.
2. Dipping Front End
If you notice that the front end of your vehicle dips hard when you come to a stop, the front suspension is likely the culprit.
3. Drifting or Pulling
As you are turning, you may notice that the vehicle drifts or pulls hard toward one side. This could be a sign of a suspension problem, but wheel alignment, brakes and tires can also be the cause. It’s worth getting everything looked at.
4. Uneven Tire Treads
If you notice that your tire treads are really uneven, again it could be anything including the suspension, wheel alignment, brakes, wheel bearings, differential or other drive train components. Be sure and at least get your tires rotated every 5,000-6,000 miles, but really uneven wear is a cause for concern.
5. Shocks or Struts Are Really Greasy
If you are able to look under your vehicle and notice that the shocks/struts are really greasy looking, then there could be a hydraulic fluid leak that you will want to deal with before it develops into more significant suspension repairs.
6. The Bounce Test
Here is one easy way to test your suspension at home. Put all of your weight on the front end and bounce the car up and down a few times. If it keeps bouncing, that’s a sign of a weak suspension. If it stops quickly, that is a sign of a healthy suspension.
If you have suspension problems or other auto repair issues you want inspected by professionals, bring your vehicle into Fox Run Auto for a thorough inspection and accurate repair estimate. Call our shop today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.