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TOP 5 SIGNS YOUR SUSPENSION NEEDS ATTENTION

by Mechanics Direct September 1, 2018

Your vehicle’s suspension controls its up and down movement when you drive on bumpy roads and potholes to ensure a smooth, safe ride. Failing suspension systems can affect your ability to stop when you slam on your brakes and your vehicle’s overall stability control on the road.

So, how do you know when your suspension needs attention? Mechanics Direct auto repair in Lowell, MA, recommends taking a few minutes to consider these five common indicators that your suspension needs attention.

  1. Your Ride is Bumpy

    Your suspension system absorbs most of your vehicle’s impact with the road to provide a smooth ride. If you feel like you’re bouncing your way down smooth roads, it could mean your suspension is worn and needs to be repaired or replaced.

  2. Drifting and Pulling Through Turns

    When turning, if you’re moving the steering wheel in the direction you want to go, but your vehicle drifts or pulls in another direction, it could mean your suspension is failing. When the shock absorbers in your suspension system fail, your steering is off, and your vehicle is not stable and could flip over, especially at higher speeds.

  3. Dipping When You Brake Firmly

    In addition to absorbing the impact of obstacles in the road, shock absorbers keep your vehicle’s body in a neutral position when stopping at high speed. Think about it. You’re moving quickly, a traffic light changes from yellow to red at the last minute, and you slam on your brakes. Does your vehicle lurch down and forward? If so, it could mean your suspension is failing. Failed suspensions can increase the time it takes you to stop by more than 20 percent. The last thing you need is to find yourself in the middle of a busy intersection when the light has changed.

  4. Oily Stains in Your Driveway or Garage

    Check your usual parking space for signs of an oily leak. While it could be fluid from other parts of your vehicle, it could also be suspension fluid. Either way, you don’t want to mess around. Leaking suspension fluid is a sure indicator that your suspension needs attention.

  5. Uneven Wear on Your Tires

    Take a look at your tires to see if the tread is wearing evenly. If so, it could mean anything from poor alignment to under inflation. But it could also mean your suspension is failing, especially if you’re experiencing any of the indicators above.

    When your suspension needs attention, take your vehicle to Mechanics Direct at 1375 Middlesex St. in Lowell, MA 01851. Our highly-skilled auto mechanics are experts at suspension replacement and repair. Schedule your appointment at Mechanics Direct, so we can take the worry out of auto repair.