Posted On: Friday, February 1, 2019

Massachusetts Roads Can Take A Real Toll On Your Vehicles Suspension

Massachusetts roads can tear up your shocks and struts. Winter potholes and otherwise rough roads cause your car’s suspension to take a real beating. A typical shock or strut is designed to have a useful life of fifty thousand miles or thereabouts. When your suspension starts to wear out your car’s ride might become harsh, stiff, overly bouncy, or make strange noises. While these things may sound like an inconvenience, they present a real safety hazard. If your suspension isn’t in great condition emergency handling can become compromised – reducing your ability to avoid an obstacle in the road.

The suspension system of a vehicle (i.e. struts or shocks) is something that many people often take for granted. However, it is vital for providing a comfortable, stable, and safe ride. It absorbs the bumps and lumps found in various road surfaces and helps you corner, accelerate, and brake safely.

Over time, the suspension system wears out, and you may start noticing that the ride is rougher than usual. If your suspension system is worn, it can affect the stopping distance by up to 20 percent, which is why it is so important to get problems checked out without delay.

Auto Repair Tips: Signs Your Suspension Needs Repair

The automotive experts at Absolute Car Care will inspect your car’s suspension and diagnose any problems right away. Our quick, professional service will have you back on the road in no time with the confidence of a well handling vehicle at your fingertips.

1. Car Rides Roughly

You can tell your car’s struts or shocks are starting out when they start feeling each bump on the road or when all bumps cause the body of the vehicle to “bounce”. A rough ride is an obvious sign that the suspension system needs repair.

2. Pulling or Drifting When You Turn

If your suspension system is failing, your will often feel your vehicle “pulling” or “drifting” when you turn. It means that the shocks no longer keep the body of your vehicle stable against the turn’s centrifugal force, which increases your risk of rolling over. If you experience this sensation when you corner, it is time to take the vehicle for servicing in a trusted auto repair shop.

3. Damaged, “Oily” Shocks

If you are able to look under your vehicle look directly at the struts or shocks. If they look oily or greasy, chances are high that they are leaking fluid and thus not working properly. It is probably the best time to replace those shocks.

4. Uneven Tire Treads

Take a close look at your tires. If you notice an uneven wearing of the tire threads or if you start noticing balding spots, this is an indication that the suspension is holding the vehicle unevenly this putting uneven pressure on your tires.

5. Dips or “Nose Dives” When You Stop

If your vehicle’s shocks are worn out, you will feel the body lurching forward and downward nose-first when brakes are firmly applied. This can actually limit your ability to stop the vehicle quickly, which is not good for your safety on the road.

Final Thoughts

If you have any questions whatsoever, just give us a buzz. We can tell you if your car should be seen or not. To request an appointment, please visit our contact page and fill out the contact form or call (508) 820-9323

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