The suspension system of our vehicle (i.e., shocks or struts) is something we take for granted all of the time. But after years of supporting several tons of metal year after year, the shocks will ultimately wear out, and suspension maintenance will be required. Unfortunately, some individuals wrongly believe that suspension is primarily concerned with providing a smooth ride. They may also believe that these sorts of repairs are not as critical as other vehicle maintenance issues such as oil changes or brake replacements. However, a bad suspension can make it hard for you to drive the car, but it can be especially dangerous when you stop or turn. Therefore, it is important to watch this part of your car’s maintenance.

What are the signs that it is time to have your suspension repaired? The majority of the time, your vehicle will inform you. Keep an eye on these six signs to understand when your vehicle needs suspension work.

1. Rough Car Rides

A common indicator that a car’s shocks or struts are wearing out is when the driver begins to feel every bump on the road or when every bump makes the vehicle’s body “bounce.” Likewise, a difficult ride indicates that your vehicle’s suspension needs repair.

2. Two-wheel Drifting or Pulling During Turns

As your suspension system fails, you will notice that the vehicle “drifts” or “pulls” when you are rotating the steering wheel. It means that the shocks can no longer keep the body of the car stable against the gravitational force of a turn, which makes it more likely that your car will roll over. If you feel this way when you turn the wheel, it is time to take your vehicle to a good auto repair shop for a checkup.

3. Dips or “Nose Dives” While Stopping

The vehicle’s body will likely swing forward and downward nose-first when you hit the brakes forcefully if the shocks have been worn out. That can limit your ability to bring the vehicle to a complete stop fast (a bad suspension can add stop time by up to 20 percent).

4. Uneven Tire Treads

Take a look at the tires on your vehicle. There may be places where your tires have no tread left at all. That is usually a sign that your suspension is not holding the car evenly. As a result, the tires are getting different amounts of pressure from the suspension.

5. “Oily” and Damaged Shocks

If you have access to the car’s underside, take a close look at the shocks or struts. They are most likely leaking fluid and are not functioning properly if their surfaces appear greasy or oily. It is most likely time to have those shocks repaired.

6. Give “Bounce Test” A Try

Consider performing this simple test if you believe your suspension is failing (possibly due to one or more of the symptoms listed above). Pressing down on the front of the vehicle with all of your weight and bouncing it a few times will cause the automobile to “bounce” back into “park.” Next, repeat the process on the back of the vehicle. The suspension may be worn down if the automobile continues to shake or bounce more than two or three times after releasing the brake. The ASE-certified technicians at Auto Alternative provide excellent auto repair in Nicholasville. They have a great reputation for exceptional customer service and reliable repairs at reasonable prices. Please call at (859) 887-5526 for a quote on suspension repair or other automotive maintenance requirements.