How Do I Check The Condition Of The Vehicle Suspension?

To check the entire suspension system, you need to check the front suspension and rear suspension separately. Most of the process involves making sure components aren't dirty, loose, or damaged. You also need to check that the height between your wheels is correct. While a little time consuming, taking special care to check these things periodically can save you a lot of money in the long-run.

What's the purpose of a suspension?

A car's suspension system absorbs shocks as you drive to give you a smoother ride. However, your suspension also affects your ability to control your vehicle when taking turns or using your brakes to stop.

Why might my suspension wear out?

Your suspension needs routine maintenance like changing your oil or having your brakes checked. This is because it's supporting tons of metal on a daily basis, and natural wear and tear after a while is inevitable. Below are common reasons your suspension may wear out.

• Your shocks are worn out

• Your wheels are misaligned

• The springs in your suspension system are broken

• The control arms in your suspension system are damaged

Signs of Suspension Issues

Most of the time, you're able to feel when your suspension isn't working properly. However, below are common signs that your suspension is damaged or not functioning as it should.

• You feel like you're drifting when you drive

• Driving feels really rough and bumpy

• When you stop, you notice your car dips forward

Investigating front and rear suspension

Front suspension

1. Pop the hood of your car and check that your strut mounts or shock towers aren't loose or covered in rust.

1. Measure the height between your wheels to see if they're even. If not, there's an issue. If they're even, you could still have suspension problems.

1. Use a jack. A jack lifts up your vehicle so you can visually inspect the suspension system. Refer to your car's user manual to know how things should be structured.

1. Check the rubber brushings of your suspension for any grease or damage.

1. Use your car user's manual to identify your car's tie rod ends. Check them for any excess dirt or grease or general damage.

Rear suspension

1. Like with the front suspension, use a jack. A jack lifts up your vehicle so you can visually inspect the suspension system. Refer to your car's user manual to know how things should be structured.

1. Wipe down and clean your rubber brushings to ensure they're functioning correctly.

1. Inspect small parts like bolts and nuts for rust, grease, and damage. Also, make sure that they're not overly tight.

1. Check to make sure that you can't move any suspension components by hand. Due to the weight, they're supposed to be able to hold; these components shouldn't be moveable with just your hands.

Don't mask the problem—get your car fixed, now!

Problems with your car are capable of quickly becoming very serious. Don't waste time; get your car fixed ASAP. Replacing or repairing some aspects of your vehicle is costly. However, sitting on the problem is not just dangerous, but as more damage is acquired, the more expensive it becomes to repair.

Small issues that you could've had fixed for less than $100 may snowball into more expensive and serious problems. It's important to nip any issues in the bud.

Does my insurance pay for maintenance and repairs?

Most insurers won't pay for regular repairs and maintenance; however, some policies include roadside assistance. If you're vehicle breaks down, you'll be towed to a mechanic for repairs.

It's important to have comprehensive and collision insurance. While normal repairs aren't covered, damage or repairs in the case of an accident or weather-related event IS covered.

When the time arises, is my insurance going to be enough?

When it comes to car insurance, there are several factors to consider beyond monthly cost. A policy that covers you when you need it, has a low deductible, and offers several discounts can be hard to find - which is why we've done the work for you.

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