Depending on the vehicle type, manufacturers install different types of suspension. In some of them, which are oriented to be comfort, we have those with softer characteristics. Fast cars require increased wheel grip to the road, that’s why their suspension characteristics are much more harder. The common thing of every suspension, regardless of its us – is to be safe in use. To make this possible, this system must be efficient by eliminating malfunctioning components as fast as possible. To do it we have to know what and when to replace. We advise you how to diagnose the suspension failure by yourself.
SUSPENSION FAILURE AND ITS SYMPTOMS
Shock absorbers are the most common problem when it comes to rear suspension failure. Riding on poor quality roads means higher loads, and this increases intensity of use. Lack of efficiency of this component is manifested by the deterioration of driving comfort. Especially when overcoming bumps. In addition to the differences in handling, uneven tire wear might also occur. You might notice it on the treads edges. Often you might find oil leaks of shock absorbers. If you want to find out whether worn shock absorbers are guilty of improper driving behaviour, you should try to press on car to make it swing. If the car swings instead of returning to its original position, the shock absorbers are broken.
The wear of silent blocks (mouting bushes) might appear with completely different symptoms. While driving you might hear knocking noises coming from the rear of the vehicle. There might be a risk of uncontrolled change of direction when car bumps on the road. To prevent it – it is worth to check if you hear a knocking sound. The best is to place your car on the jack and check if there is any loose in wheels area.
Similar symptoms are given by damaged stablilizer bar (knocking noise coming from behind).
You might broke stabilizer bar only in certain conditions, i.e. when driving on uneven ground with wheels turned to left or right.
Driving a car on uneven surfaces with turned wheels can also cause damage to the steering rod. In this case, in addition to knocking, you will notice a characteristic pulling of the car to one side. As in case of worn silent blocks, you should check if there are any loose in wheels area.
Springs are relatively strong, but if you hear shooting, e.g. when turning wheels while standstill or your car tilts heavily, it is almost certain that it is due to broken springs.
Rear suspension diagnostics
Regardless of the results of our inspection, it is advisable to do suspension check at least once a year. You can do it while changing tyres. Remember to readjust wheels geometry every time you do some intervention in suspension.
