Your car’s suspension system takes a beating—especially during winter. Cracks, potholes, and road salt can all wear out your shocks and struts. Summer is the perfect time to inspect and repair your suspension system for a safer, smoother ride.
What Your Suspension System Does
The suspension system helps your car absorb bumps, handle corners, and maintain stability. It includes shocks, struts, springs, and control arms. If even one part is worn, your car’s safety and performance can suffer.
Signs of Suspension Wear
1. Rough Ride
If you feel every bump in the road, your shocks or struts may be worn out.
2. Vehicle Pulls to One Side
This could be a sign of misalignment or uneven suspension wear.
3. Uneven Tire Wear
Your suspension keeps the tires in contact with the road. Poor alignment leads to early tire damage.
4. Leaking or Sagging
Fluid around your shocks or a sagging corner of your vehicle are clear warning signs.
Summer Suspension Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect and Replace Shocks and Struts
Most vehicles need new shocks or struts every 50,000–100,000 miles. Summer is a good time to replace them after winter damage.
2. Check Wheel Alignment
A professional alignment helps protect your tires and improves handling.
3. Examine Bushings and Ball Joints
These small parts help your suspension move smoothly. Look for signs of wear, such as noise or looseness.
4. Keep Suspension Clean
Road salt and grime can corrode metal parts. Have your mechanic clean and lubricate moving parts.
Drive Smoothly All Summer Long
A strong suspension system keeps your car safe, smooth, and responsive. With a little maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy better performance on the road this summer.