he suspension system in your vehicle is an important part of your drive’s operation and ride quality. The shocks and struts absorb the impact and weight of your vehicle and can wear out over regular wear and tear. A bad suspension dramatically affects your ability to control your vehicle. It helps maintain control when stopping or turning, so riding on a lousy suspension could be a safety hazard. You may need suspension repair if you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog. Call our auto repair shop today for more information! 

What is your suspension? 

Your vehicle’s suspension is the parts on your vehicle comprising of shock-absorbing components such as springs or shocks (also called dampers). By absorbing impacts from road bumps or other impacts, your suspension helps ensure a smooth and safe ride. It also helps you stay in contact with the road increasing safety and friction! The shocks help control the height and load of the cabin and suspension. At the same time, the shocks absorb and dampen the impacts your vehicle experiences driving down the road. Your vehicle could also have an anti-sway bar which helps stabilize the direction of your vehicle as it moves down the road. It does this by shifting the movement of your wheels relative to your steering wheel. 

Why is your suspension important? 

Your suspension is an integral part of your vehicle because it acts as a cushion between you and the road. It prevents you from feeling every bump in the street and prevents your vehicle from bouncing. It absorbs the energy transferred through your vehicle’s wheels and attempts to dissipate it so you have a smoother ride. If your suspension is left damaged could domino into a safety issue when you are driving. Taking tight turns or stopping abruptly could spell trouble if your vehicle needs suspension repair. 

How do you know if you need suspension repair? 

There are several ways to indicate the need for suspension repair. They are: 

• Drifting or pulling while turning 
• Nose dives while stopping 
• Damaged or oily shocks 
• Vehicle doesn’t ride smoothly 
• Uneven tire treads 

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you may need suspension repair. You can even do a simple test to see if your suspension is wearing out. This test is called the “bounce test,” where you put all of your weight on the front of the vehicle, bounce a couple of times, and let go. If your vehicle continues to rock more than two or three times, your suspension is likely wearing out. Do this on both the front and back of your vehicle to see!