3 Signs that your Vehicle's Suspension System Needs Servicing

As long as the wheels on your vehicle are in contact with the road, suspensions are always in action. Most importantly, dampers or shock absorbers are essential to a vehicle's support and handling and to the comfort of passengers. However, dampers tend to wear out and lose their ability to function optimally with time. The sad thing is that most car owners wait longer than necessary to visit a mechanic, and when they do, the suspensions are often beyond repair. To avoid being a victim, you can look out for signs that indicate that your suspensions need inspection.

Uneven Tyre Wear -- If you have properly functioning shock absorbers, then the treads on your vehicle's tyres should wear out uniformly, since dampers spread pressure evenly on all tyres. However, if you notice uneven wearing of tyre treads, then there might be something wrong with the shock absorbers. The presence of balding spots on some tyres is a sign that you need the suspension system checked by a professional. Nonetheless, you have to be careful because some wear might just be normal. You should be worried if uneven wear is spotted on tyres that were bought at the same time.  

Excessive Bouncing -- After driving your car for some time, your suspension will age, and you might start suspecting the system, which is a right time to conduct the bounce test. With the engine off, have a friend help you press the front of the car and then release at the same time. Do the same for the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle should return to its original position if the shock absorbers are working optimally. However, if the car bounces more than two times after release, then you need to have the dampers checked. Excessive bouncing is a clear sign that your suspension needs repairs.

The Front Dips When Braking -- When braking, the inertia experienced should not make the car dip at the front if the dampers are working well. However, if you notice that every time you apply the brakes, the car seems to assume a nose-dive action, then you need to give your mechanic a call immediately. A vehicle that dips at the front as a result of worn-out shock absorbers will take a bit of time to come to a halt once brakes are applied. Notably, worn shocks tend to increase the braking distance of a car, which poses a danger to motorists as well as pedestrians, especially on a wet surface.

Contact auto mechanics in your area for additional advice.