A vehicle’s suspension consists of springs, shocks, struts, and other components that work to stabilize the vehicle and support its weight. The suspension helps absorb impacts from bumps and dips in the road, ensuring a smooth, stable ride and improving handling and road control. As with other parts of a vehicle, the suspension components can wear out over time. If you wait too long to get suspension issues fixed, it can make your vehicle unsafe to drive, especially at high speeds. As such, it’s important that you know how to spot signs of suspension issues so that you know when you should see a mechanic.
Common Signs of Suspension Problems
An overly bumpy ride in the car is the most common sign of suspension issues and usually indicates that the springs, shocks, or struts are worn out and have lost their elasticity. You can usually identify if the suspension is the culprit by pushing down on the rear of the vehicle to see if it bounces when you let go. If the suspension is in good shape, the vehicle should immediately rise back up with little to no bouncing. A worn-out spring will also often cause one corner of the vehicle to sit lower.
Other issues to watch for are if your vehicle pulls to one side, if the front of the vehicle dips forward when braking, or if it leans to the side when cornering. Pulling to one side can potentially be a sign of issues with your tires or alignment as well. Poor handling, difficulties steering, and uneven tire wear can also be signs that your suspension is wearing out.
How Often Should You Have Your Suspension Inspected?
You should always have your suspension inspected if you start experiencing any of the issues we just mentioned. We also recommend having your suspension checked out every time you replace your tires or have your brakes worked on. It’s a good idea to have a mechanic inspect your suspension and steering, along with the rest of the vehicle, every 60,000-80,000 kilometers as well, just to be safe. By watching out for issues and being diligent about having your vehicle maintained and inspected, you can avoid major safety hazards and costly repairs.
If you’re dealing with problems with shocks and struts in Vancouver, SuperTech Auto Repair is ready to help. We offer the full range of auto repair services and can ensure you enjoy a safe, smooth ride. To book an appointment for suspension repair in Vancouver, contact us today.
