Diagnosing Common Suspension Problems

The Stability

You will notice that one side or corner of your car is lower than the rest.  It can mean that the spring has broken causing that corner to drop.

Pull up on a flat surface and at each corner of the car push down with all your weight and let go. If the car bounces more than 2 or 3 times there is an issue and you should speak with us and bring it in.

Bumpy Ride

If you are finding that the ride is bumpier than normal, then this could be related to suspension issues.  They wear out like anything else so they end up not absorbing defects in the road as well.

The lubricant in the shock absorbers from the compression and expansion can cause the lubricant to be pushed out. Have a look under the car at the absorbers and inspect them for oily residue on the surface, this could mean there is a leak and should be looked at as soon as possible.

Inspect your tyres for unusual wear where the tread has reduced more than the rest of the tyre.

If it wears too much on the inside or the outside of the tyre this could mean that your wheel tracking needs attention or a poor performing suspension system.

Handling

If your vehicle is pulling to either side of the road and you are correcting your direction a lot then wheel alignment could be the cause.  Turn a corner and you may notice that the car drifts more than experienced before.  With more tilting than normal and a knocking sound also, this could be your suspension system or your anti-roll bar which should be looked at immediately for safety reasons.