What are Common Suspension Problems?

The job of a car's suspension system is important - it helps to make your steering and control reliable and accurate while also helping to create the friction between the road and your vehicle. The suspension system is also responsible for absorbing and reducing shock from the road so that you don't feel every bump in the road while driving. 

While suspension components are typically resilient, they aren't completely void of issues and can have problems arise over time. The main components of the suspensions system include the springs, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, and more. Being exposed on the bottom of your vehicle, these parts are constantly exposed to debris, rocks, speed bumps, potholes, and other driving occurrences which can potentially damage components. 

Here are the most common suspension problems and the symptoms to look out for that can indicate you may need a suspension system repair: 

• Poor wheel alignment - this can cause damage to your tires and the suspension system, and make it hard to control your vehicle. A symptom of this includes your vehicle pulling to one side while driving. 
   
• Bad shocks or struts - shocks and struts can break down and leak over time, which can decrease their efficiency. If you need shocks or struts replacement, you'll notice that your vehicle's ride is much more bumpy than usual. 
   
• Damaged springs - springs hold up your vehicle correctly but can break or become damaged over time. If your car is on level ground and one side seems to be lower than the other, this is a warning sign of a damaged spring. 
   
• Failing ball joints - ball joints are important for absorbing shock and ensuring that your steering moves smoothly. If you hear a squeaking or creaking when turning, this is a sign of bad ball joints. 
   
• Bad control arms - control arms are the hinges that hold your wheels to the frame of your vehicle. Lower control arm bushings are prone to damage in front-wheel drive vehicles and can bend over time. If you hear clunks or rattles while turning, you may have. a bent control arm. 

These are some of the most common suspension problems that can occur. If you suspect an issue with your vehicle's suspension system, we invite you into our shop here at West Coast Tire & Service for friendly assistance. Driving with bad suspension can make it difficult to steer properly, and can put your safety at risk. We will make sure that your suspension system is in proper working order and help you keep track of your factory recommendations for suspension component service and replacement over time. Give us a call or stop by today!