5 Warning Signs Of Suspension System Problems In Your Car

Sometimes it's tricky to diagnose suspension problems on cars. The symptoms may be there but can easily be mistaken for something else or may have occurred gradually and therefore thought to be normal. Recognizing the warning signs of suspension system problems can mean the difference between needing major or minor repairs.

THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM

The suspension system of your car is complex and made up of many different parts. They include shock absorbers, springs, struts and ball joints, just to name a few. These components, along with your wheels and tires, control how your car handles the road. The suspension system also helps manage wear and tear on your car especially over bumps and in uneven road conditions.

SUSPENSION WARNING SIGNS

Your car communicates when it needs attention. Some common signs that your suspension system needs a little TLC are:

1. Continued bouncing after hitting bumps or a dipping when braking.

2. A drifting or pulling to one side when turning corners.

3. One side of the parked car sitting lower than the other side.

4. Difficult steering.

5. Unusually bumpy rides.

Bouncing and "nose-diving" likely indicates worn shocks. Pulling to one side could be as simple as a soft tire or the need for a wheel alignment or it could signify that some of the suspension components are wearing out. If your car looks uneven when on level ground with one side dipping, it could mean something in the suspension system has been damaged. Steering difficulties and rougher than normal rides are indicators of system issues.

Most car owner manuals suggest the average life of struts and other suspension system parts is around 70,000 miles depending on the driver and the roads.