The Easy Method Of Identifying Failing Suspension System Parts
The suspension of cars is an important area that often gets overlooked by vehicle owners until it shows signs of going awry. One of the telltale signs that people first notice when they have a suspension issue is that their vehicles "drive" differently. For example, a vehicle might go from stopping at a gradual speed to lurching forward when the brake system is initiated. The following are a few things to look for that can be signs of suspension problems.
Ball Joints
This portion of your suspension system works with your steering system. The ball joints serve the purpose of absorbing the impact of your vehicle against the ground. If your ball joints need replacing, you will likely hear a noise that sounds similar to a screech when you make turning movements with your steering wheel. You likely cannot peer at your ball joints and assess the damage. This is why it is helpful to use the screeching sound when turning as a cue.
Struts
If you have a strut issue, you may notice the sudden lurching of your vehicle when you get ready to come to a stop. It can also occur when a vehicle is getting ready to accelerate. Struts serve the purpose of keeping the front end of vehicles in place when they are stopping or driving off.
Shock Absorbers
Your shock absorbers aid in helping your vehicle to ride smoothly. They do what their name says. They absorb shock. If yours are malfunctioning, you can expect for rides in your car to feel bumpier that usual.
Springs
The springs on your vehicle sustain its weight. Some people who own trucks have to replace their springs regularly due to the activities they do in their trucks. For example, if a person hauls heavy items regularly in a truck as a side job, they might sometimes exceed the weight capacity and damage their springs. If you have issues with your springs, your vehicle may look lopsided and possibly make strange scrub-like noises.
An auto repair shop is a good resource to use for a definite diagnosis of a suspected suspension issue. They can inspect vehicles and make repairs to suspension systems. Keep in mind that if you continue to drive a vehicle with suspension damage, you may ruin your tires prematurely. It is also possible that the damage will get worse and cost more to repair or make your vehicle unsafe to continue to operate. For assistance, talk to a professional like Ball Tire & Automotive.