It’s easy to forget about your car’s suspension until you start to have problems with it. Generally, the suspension should be inspected every 30,000 miles. This allows us to replace suspension parts that are worn. Ignoring your suspension can leave you with an expensive problem, such as a broken axle. Let’s talk about the signs that your car is overdue for suspension work below.
1. A Bumpy Ride
Part of your vehicle’s suspension, specifically the struts and shocks, help to give you a smooth ride while you are driving your automobile. If your ride is uncomfortable and bumpy, the struts and shocks need to be replaced. These parts generally last anywhere from 45,000 miles to 60,000 miles.
2. Lurching/Leaning
Another sign that you need to have the struts and shocks replaced is lurching or leaning when you brake or accelerate, respectively. This is called momentum motion, and the struts and shocks prevent this motion when they are in excellent condition. If they are worn, you will feel this motion.
3. Oily Shocks/Struts
Finally, as the struts and shocks get old, the seals that they have to prevent the fluid from leaking out of them will crack. If you reach up behind your wheels and touch the struts and shocks, they will feel greasy or oily. They definitely need to be replaced if this is the case.
4. Low-Sitting Corner
Let’s talk about other suspension problems. Your wheels also have suspension springs on them. These are also called leaf springs. These springs can break when they get too old. If one of the springs has broken, you will notice that your vehicle sits lower on that wheel.
5. Steering Difficulties
You may not have realized it but your steering system is part of the suspension. If your vehicle is becoming unresponsive to your steering commands, you have a problem with the steering system. Unfortunately, this can also be a sign that you have a crack in the suspension axle.
6. Pulling to the Side
Finally, as we just mentioned, your vehicle should head in a straight direction unless you turn the steering wheel. If it is veering to the side, you need to have the wheels realigned. Generally, this maintenance is recommended every two years.
This being said, you cannot the wheels out of alignment prematurely. If you suspect you have done so, call our shop today to schedule a service visit for a suspension inspection.
