5 Major Signs Your Car Needs Suspension Repair
The suspension supports the entire weight of your vehicle and can make your driving experience have a smooth ride. When the suspension becomes worn out, it can affect your ability to control the vehicle, especially when stopping and turning. It can also affect the performance of the car at different speeds. Pay attention to how your car drives, the sounds it makes, and if you notice anything unusual, immediately check the problem as it comes up.
Owning a vehicle comes with the responsibility to make sure it is properly taken care of by having a regular inspection and a maintenance plan. Just like tire repairs and oil changes, suspension maintenance is important because it will help your car’s health and value, ending with you saving more money and peace of mind.
1. Car Rides Rough
There are many common reasons why your car might not be driving smoothly compared to the first time you brought it brand new. Aside from the tires, the suspension is the first suspect that causes you to feel every bump in the road and bounce. You can test this by putting all your weight on the front end and release when the car is parked. If the car bounces up and down, the shocks and struts need to be replaced. Worn out shocks can cause greater problems if not replaced because they serve the purpose to absorb the bumps and bounces. When they wear out, it depletes the performance and controllability of your car, resulting in severely damaging your vehicle.
2. Drifting or Pulling During Turns
If you often feel like your vehicle is drifting or pulling when you turn, chances are that it is from a failed suspension system. This means the shocks are no longer keeping the vehicle body stable against the centrifugal force of a turn. You could possibly run the risk of rolling your car. When driving, be aware of how the car feels on turns, and if drifting occurs, it's time to take your car to an auto repair shop for servicing. Have your tires and alignment checked to ensure that your suspension is damaged, you can get it fixed immediately before bigger issues arise.
3. Difficult to Steer
If your car becomes hard to steer, especially at low speeds, something could be wrong with the suspension. The steering is linked to the suspension and they often rely on each other to provide you comfortability and steer the vehicle. If you notice your steering is resisting or loose, it is time to get it looked at an auto repair shop. Low power steering fluid, worn or loose belts can also be a part of the problem. When turning, a squealing or whining sound is a sign that the power steering pump is failing.
4. Uneven Tire Treads
Tires can be a leading cause of how well your vehicle performs while driving. Take a look at your tires and if you notice the tread is wearing down unevenly, bald spots, or any clues that the suspension isn’t holding the car evenly, there could be uneven amounts of pressure on your tires.
5. Damaged Oil Shocks
Check for any leaking fluid that looks greasy or oily under your vehicle. If there is residue, or dripping, the shock and struts aren’t working properly. Take your car to an auto repair shop to get those shocks replaced.
Jody’s Automotive
If you are experiencing a damaged suspension, look to a professional to maintain and ensure your car is running smoothly. Jody’s Automotive offers full-service oil changes, power steering checks, radiator service, air conditioning repair, transmission service, fleet service, and more. Jody’s Automotive strives to provide Jonesville, NC, and Elkin, NC with fast, affordable service for all makes and models of cars. Contact us and visit today to get the best maintenance for your car.