At Gary's Automotive Repair, we understand the importance of a well-maintained suspension system. Our technicians provide expert suspension services to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.
The suspension system is a component of the chassis, which is the framework and undercarriage of a vehicle. It's what stabilizes your ride. The suspension system and related components are composed of coil springs, shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, along with control arms and stabilizer links. These items enhance your ability to control your vehicle effectively.
Suspension bushings, joints, and bearings allow components to respond with agility and move with the vehicle. When your suspension is working well, you can travel comfortably over rough terrain and maintain good contact with the road surface.
Signs That Your Suspension Needs Attention
If you haven't gotten maintenance completed, the following signs may indicate that your suspension needs service.
- Uneven tire wear
- Excessive swaying or bouncing when driving
- Poor handling or difficulty steering
- Excessive noise when going over bumps or driving on rough roads
- A shifting feeling when stopping or accelerating
Uneven Tire Wear
When tires wear unevenly, they will usually need to be replaced sooner. If your vehicle is pulling to one side or struggling to corner efficiently, your suspension system may be the culprit.
Bouncing After A Road Dip
Normally, drivers don't feel every pebble in the road or every dip in the highway. If they do wear out, struts and/or shocks may be the problem. Damaged coil springs or worn-out struts/shocks won't absorb normal impacts properly, causing your vehicle to feel a bit more like a trampoline after each dip.
Difficulty Steering
Often when the suspension is damaged, a car will pull to one side or have other issues with the steering. The steering system is usually the first area to feel "off" when there are problems with the suspension.
Excessive Noise
Creaking or a banging sound when encountering speed bumps or potholes in the road is also a sign of worn suspension components. This is usually not visible from outside the vehicle and an inspection should be scheduled.
A Shifting Feeling When Stopping Or Accelerating
Control Arms combined with stabilizer links secure the vehicle's front wheels, allowing you to steer effectively around corners and when traveling straight. When the bushings on the control arms wear out, there is a feeling of excessive play in the front end of the vehicle. This can feel like a shifting when braking or accelerating. A struggling car suspension can't handle the weight plus a change in velocity well, so the front end will tend to shift noticeably during braking and acceleration.
Advantages of Proper Suspension Maintenance
Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your suspension system and make the risk of costly repairs less likely. Scheduling regular maintenance can enhance the safety of your vehicle and help to reduce future costs. Improved vehicle stability and handling
- Improved safety
- Better ride comfort
- Avoids more costly repairs
Schedule Today
At Gary's Automotive Repair, we check struts, shocks, any noises/worn components, steering wheel alignment, and more. When you schedule with us, you're getting professionals who care, experts who have upheld our reputation for years, because we take vehicle repair and maintenance seriously. We'll make your ride a smooth one.

