Your car’s suspension system plays an important role in keeping your ride safe and enjoyable. This complex system of springs, shock absorbers, bearings, bushings and more work together to provide comfortable and safe driving that minimizes impacts from bumps in the road and keeps your tires sticking to the ground for maximum traction. As you can imagine, it requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the car and ongoing enjoyment when driving. 

Here are some common signs to tell if there is something wrong with your car’s suspension components:  

1. Vehicle dives or bounces over bumps 

A car’s suspension helps to soak up imperfect pavement, bumps and potholes, so you can enjoy a comfortable ride. If any of the suspension components are worn out, whether it maybe shocks absorbers, coil springs or strut mounts, your vehicle may bounce excessively over imperfections on neglected roads. You may also feel the nose-diving excessively forward under braking. If it bounces up and down a few times, it's time to have the suspension checked at a service centre. 

2. Poor steering  

The suspension and steering systems on your car are interrelated. A failure in one system may cause issues in other systems. For example, if a part of your suspension fails, your vehicle may have difficulty staying on course or feel loose as you steer. This can be caused by other issues, too, such as poor steering alignment, which is possible even if the suspension is in great shape.

3. Bumpy ride 

When you notice that your car bounces around more than usual and you feel every bump in the road, this can indicate that the shocks or struts within your suspension system may need replacing.

4. Fluid leakage 

If you ever notice fluid leaking from under your car or a trail of liquid when driving, it is always worth investigating. If you find that the shocks or struts beneath your car looks oily, then the fluid is probably leaking from them. 

5. One side of the car dips low 

When one corner of your car appears to be lower than the others, that may indicate a worn or damaged spring. If you notice clunking noises as you drive over bumps or deep potholes, or if your entire weight causes the car's body to sag when you push down on the boot, you should have your suspension checked by a mechanic. 

6. Squeaking noises 

Squeaking, clanking, or knocking noises coming from the control arm bushings, ball-joints, strut mounts, and coil springs may indicate that the suspension components need to be replaced. The noises can include higher-pitched squeaking especially when hitting bumps or an uneven surface, clunking and knocking when turning and potentially a mixture of these noises when speeding up and or slowing down. Driving for too long with failed parts like suspension bushings and tie-rod ends can put additional stress on other parts of the suspension system. 

Why you should replace your suspension 

Damage to a vehicle's suspension system limits the driver's ability to control the car. It also affects the vehicle's ride, making the driver feel uncomfortable even when driving over rough roads. Also, bad suspension systems deteriorate more quickly, which can lead to additional problems with other parts of your car. Early detection of a problem can prevents further damage.  

Our friendly staff is available to help you select the right replacement parts. We can also provide recommendations on trusted local mechanics who can help you out with the repair process. To get in touch, please send through an enquiry at: https://www.sterlingparts.com.au/enquiries/new