Your vehicle’s suspension system handles two important jobs: first is preventing the passengers from getting tossed around inside the vehicle every time it hits a bump in the road, and the second is keeping the tires firmly planted on the road around every corner and over every bump.
Where is the Suspension System
To see your suspension system, you’ll have to look under your vehicle. Anything that connects the wheels to the vehicle’s frame is part of the suspension system. They are heavy-duty parts that work hard while you’re driving, and they take a lot of wear and tear. Because of this, you should have your technician at Davies Auto Care look at them once a year as part of your preventive maintenance routine. A good time for it is every time you get your alignment checked.
If your suspension is in trouble, you will feel it while driving. You should get it checked asap if:
- the vehicle pulls to one side or wanders
- the steering is erratic
- the?ride isn’t as smooth as it should be
- your vehicle handles poorly
- tires are worn out unevenly
If your shocks are leaking oil then they definitely need to be replaced. All in all, if you don’t feel in control when you’re driving, go get your suspension inspected.
Shocks and struts wear out. Wheel bearings may need to be repacked every few years. Some parts of your suspension may need to be lubricated whenever you change your oil. Preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle under control. Good care can prevent accidents.
If you are in an accident, even a minor one, it can damage your suspension system or knock your wheels out of alignment. Even hitting a curb, pothole or large rock can damage your suspension. A wheel balancing or alignment won’t correct a suspension problem, and after any suspension work, you may need to get an alignment.
Keeping Your Suspension System in Tip-Top Shape
Drivers are always advised to avoid procrastinating on getting their suspension system checked. A damaged suspension system can lead to loss of control of a vehicle in an emergency situation and serious accidents.
Potholes are unsightly nuisances in most cities, but what’s worse is that they’re also a major cause of suspension damage for vehicles. To avoid this, drivers should always keep their tires properly inflated. This gives the tires maximum resiliency. When you’re driving around, avoid potholes as much as possible. If you can’t avoid one, then slow down before driving over it. Slower speeds limit pothole damage. But if you’re a little late detecting a pothole, don’t brake on top of it. This will throw the vehicle’s weight forward and increase the damage.
The suspension system may not be pretty to look at, but it provides you with a safe, comfortable ride ? as long as you maintain it properly. You don’t have to show it off, but you should be proud of it.
If you ever need to have your suspension looked at or repaired, contact Davies Auto Care and we’ll see what we can do for your car.
