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4 Most Common Sounds of Suspension Problems

As a vehicle owner, you want to keep your car in the best possible condition to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience. But when you hear a noise coming from your suspension, you may start to worry. Read below to learn the four most common sounds of suspension problems and what they may mean for your vehicle.

A Creaking Noise

When you hear a creaking noise from your vehicle’s suspension, it may be a sign that you have worn or damaged bushings, which provide cushioning between metal parts. But don’t let that noise go unattended.

Over time, the bushings can wear out and create noise as the metal parts start to rub against each other. Make sure you have someone look at them immediately.

A Rattling Sound

Another common sound of suspension problems is a rattling noise. You may often hear this sound when you hit a bump or pothole. Usually, you can attribute it to a loose or damaged part within your suspension system.

A common cause of a rattling noise is a loose sway bar link, which connects the sway bar to the control arm. Another cause is a damaged shock or strut, which you should have fixed immediately.

A Squeaking Noise

You may also notice a squeaking noise from your suspension as you drive over uneven surfaces or during vehicle movement. This can happen when your car needs some greasing on components like the tie rods. Another cause is that the suspension has worn or damaged shock or strut mount bushings.

A Knocking Sound

Finally, if you hear a knocking sound in your suspension, it’s a clear sign that something may be amiss, and you should have it addressed as soon as possible. You can often hear this sound when driving over bumps.

One potential cause of a knocking noise in your suspension is a damaged or worn control arm bushing. The bushing may have become worn out or damaged, allowing for excessive movement and creating the knocking sound. A worn or damaged strut or shock mount can also create a knocking sound, as these components lose their ability to support the suspension system.

Advanced VTech can help you when you hear one of these noises in your vehicle. Our staff’s extensive experience in car suspension repair allows them to easily diagnose and fix the problem so that you can enjoy a noise-free experience in your car once again.

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Choosing the Right Suspension for Your Driving Needs

By Tony Mers • 29 Oct, 2024
The suspension system impacts many aspects of your vehicle, from ride comfort to vehicle handling. Whether you want to enhance your vehicle’s performance or enjoy a smoother drive, review these tips for choosing the right suspension for your driving needs. Learn About the Different Types of Suspensions Start your search by familiarizing yourself with the different types of automotive suspensions. Independent suspensions, such as MacPherson strut and double wishbone setups, can improve ride quality. Alternatively, solid axle suspensions provide durability and load-bearing capabilities. Understanding these options will help you match the suspension type to your driving needs. Consider the Way You Drive Another tip is to find a match for your driving habits. For example, a performance-oriented suspension with stiff springs and shocks may be best if you enjoy spirited driving and frequently take corners at high speeds. Conversely, a standard suspension is better if you primarily use your car for daily commuting and long highway drives. Evaluating your driving style will guide you toward a suspension that enhances your experience behind the wheel. Determine Your Car’s Weight You must also find a suspension system that supports your vehicle’s weight. Every suspension has a weight rating, and ignoring it can damage your vehicle and put you in danger. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm that the suspension you’re considering will tolerate your vehicle and additional cargo or modifications. Think About Where You Travel When looking at suspensions, you should consider where you drive your vehicle. If you frequently take rough trails or uneven surfaces, an off-road suspension with increased ground clearance and durable components will serve you well. On the other hand, you should turn to a standard suspension if you mainly drive on city streets and highways. Tailoring your suspension to your driving environment enhances safety and driving pleasure. Make It Work With Your Budget While you may feel tempted to splurge on top-tier suspension systems, keep your budget in mind. High-end suspensions offer superior performance and durability but come at a premium price. Conversely, you may be able to find more affordable options that provide substantial improvements over stock suspensions. Assess your financial situation and set a realistic budget to get the best value without compromising on quality. Considering these factors will help you choose a suspension that makes your driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable. If you need to repair or replace your current system, Advanced Vehicle Technology Services can help. With our suspension service , you’ll enjoy smooth rides in your car once again and have more control while steering.
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