What are common suspension problems?

Your vehicle’s suspension system is important when it comes to making sure that your vehicle’s ride is smooth and controlled. A problem with the suspension system can make it difficult to steer and make your drive uncomfortable overall. So, what are some common suspension problems and their symptoms?

Being aware of how your vehicle feels when driving can help you better identify when there might be an issue with the suspension system. Symptoms such as heavy vibrating or bouncing excessively when driving over bumps can be an indication of a suspension problem.

Here are some of the most common suspension problems that can occur: 

• Worn shocks or struts – these components have the important job of dampening the shock from the road as you drive. They help keep your vehicle controlled and prevent it from bouncing excessively. If you notice a bumpy ride or uneven tire wear, you may have worn shocks or struts. They typically start to leak when they are worn and are usually replaced together.

• Bad wheel alignment – wheels that are out of alignment can make your vehicle pull to one side when traveling straight. Driving with bad alignment can also wear down your vehicle’s tires and suspension components, so it should be taken care of as soon as you notice that your vehicle is driving straight as it should.

• Damaged springs – the springs are what hold your suspension system together and help support the weight of your vehicle. Bad springs can make one side of your vehicle sit lower than another and can also cause clunking noises while driving.

• Bad ball joints – the ball joints are connected to the control arms which help to turn your wheels when your drive. If you hear squeaking or creaking when turning, they may need to be replaced.

• Bent control arms – a bent control arm can cause issues when steering and turning. Clunks or rattles can indicate control arm or bushing issues.

These are just the most common suspension system issues that can occur. If you suspect a problem with your vehicle’s suspension system, we invite you to bring your vehicle to the experts here at Bavarian Workshop today!