The Common Signs That Your Car Needs A Suspension Service

You check your oil filters, brakes and tyres regularly, but how often do you think about your suspension? Taking it for granted is a dangerous mistake because the struts and shocks on your car aren’t just there to ensure a smooth ride. They perform a vital role in keeping you safe on the road. A worn or damaged suspension system will impact your ability to control your car’s brakes and steering, so neglect could prove costly.

Luckily, you don’t have to be a trained mechanic to know when it’s time to book a suspension service because if you pay attention, your car will let you know.

Here are the common signs that you need a suspension service:

  1. Does your car pull or drift when turning?

One of the key functions of your suspension is to stabilise your vehicle (which may weigh several tonnes) when it’s under pressure from the centrifugal force of turns. This keeps all four wheels on the ground, preventing your car from rolling. So if you feel your car pulling out or drifting when you make turns, it’s not as stable as it should be. Don’t hesitate to book a suspension service.

  1. Rough ride?

If you feel every bump on the road, or your car seems to bounce over bumps, you need to service your vehicle’s suspension.

  1. Is your vehicle “nose-diving” when you brake?

If your vehicle feels like it’s doing a lurching nose-dive when you brake hard, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. This means your shocks are worn, which can make your brakes up to 20% less effective.

  1. Are your tyre treads uneven?

If your suspension system is healthy, your tyres will wear down evenly because the support is balanced. If your tyres seem to be wearing unevenly, it’s a sign that your suspension isn’t providing the balanced support and stability required for safe driving.

  1. Are your shocks oily?

Examine the shocks and struts for the presence of grease or oil from leaking fluid. If they’re leaking, they won’t work properly and you should replace them without delay.

  1. Does your car pass the “bounce” test?

If you want to check your suspension because you’ve noticed some of the problems we’ve shared here, you could do the “bounce” test. Park your car on a flat surface and putting all your weight into the effort, push down on the front of the bonnet to bounce the car up and down and let go. Repeat the bounce test on the back of the vehicle. If your car bounces more than twice after you let go, your suspension is definitely worn or damaged and needs a service.

Book your vehicle into a Midas workshop for an extensive suspension service by our experienced mechanics.