Planning a long summer road trip? Before you hit the highway, make sure your car’s suspension system is ready for the miles ahead. At Frank’s Automotive Repair in Tulare, CA, we know suspension plays a key role in keeping your ride smooth and safe. Worn-out shocks, struts, or bushings can affect your car’s handling and even lead to uneven tire wear or steering problems.
What Does the Suspension System Do?
The suspension system includes parts like shocks, struts, springs, and control arms. These components work together to absorb road bumps, keep your tires in contact with the pavement, and maintain vehicle stability during turns, braking, or acceleration. A worn suspension not only makes driving uncomfortable—it can be dangerous.
Signs Your Suspension Might Need Attention
1.Bumpy or Uneven Ride
If your vehicle feels rough over small bumps or dips, your shocks or struts may be worn.
2.Drifting or Pulling While Turning
If the car leans or sways too much during turns, your suspension may not be keeping the vehicle stable.
3.Nose Dives When Braking
A front-end dip when you brake is a classic sign of worn shocks.
4.Uneven Tire Wear
Suspension problems can cause tires to wear faster on one side. This reduces grip and can lead to blowouts.
5.Oily Shocks or Struts
If you see oily residue on the shocks or struts, they could be leaking and not functioning properly.
How to Inspect Your Suspension System
1.Do the Bounce Test
Push down firmly on the front or rear of your vehicle. If it bounces more than 2-3 times, your shocks might be worn.
2.Visual Inspection
Look under the car for damaged or leaking shocks, cracked bushings, or sagging springs.
3.Listen for Clunks or Creaks
Strange noises when going over bumps could indicate worn control arms or sway bar links.
4.Steering Feel
Loose or imprecise steering can signal suspension wear or misalignment.
FAQs About Suspension Maintenance
Q: How often should I check my suspension?
A: At least once a year, or before any long road trip. If you notice changes in ride quality or handling, get it checked right away.
Q: Can I drive with bad shocks?
A: It’s possible, but not safe. Worn shocks reduce control, especially in emergency braking or turns.
Q: What causes suspension parts to wear out?
A: Normal wear, driving on rough roads, potholes, and heavy loads all take a toll on your suspension.
Q: Is suspension repair expensive?
A: Costs vary by vehicle and part. At Frank’s Automotive Repair, we offer affordable, honest quotes and quality parts.
Stay Safe and Comfortable on the Road
Before your next big trip, let Frank’s Automotive Repair give your suspension system a professional checkup. We’ll inspect shocks, struts, bushings, and alignment to ensure your car is road-ready.
Schedule your suspension inspection in Tulare today and enjoy a smoother, safer drive this summer.