How do you check front suspension noise?

For frontend noises, pop the hood and have your comrade press down on the bumper or fender. Release and lift repeatedly until the suspension is really working. While doing this, listen carefully and use a good light to examine the upper strut or shock mounts and the control arm joints.

How long does suspension last?

Many car suspension components last about 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or around seven or eight years. These parts may wear down at different times. You may need to replace the steering fluid every 30,000 miles, install new shocks and struts every 50,000 miles, or replace the tires every 36,000 to 75,000 miles

Can you fix broken suspension?

For most suspension repairs, you'll need specialist tools, the correct replacement parts, jacks to elevate the vehicle, a level work area, and plenty of space. However, the easiest and quickest way to rectify suspension problems is to book in with your local Fixter mechanic right away

December 17, 2023

How do you check suspension wear?

Checking suspension wear is an important part of regular vehicle maintenance to ensure safety and optimal performance. Here’s how you can check for suspension wear:

Visual Inspection:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Walk around the vehicle and visually inspect the suspension components, including the shocks or struts, springs, control arms, and bushings.
- Look for any signs of damage, such as bent or cracked components, leaking fluid around the shocks or struts, or worn-out rubber bushings. These are all indications of suspension wear.
Bounce Test:
- Stand next to one corner of your vehicle and push down on it, applying your body weight. Release the pressure and observe the vehicle’s response.
- A healthy suspension should compress and then quickly return to its normal position without bouncing excessively. If the vehicle continues to bounce up and down, it may be a sign of worn-out shocks or struts.
Listen for Unusual Noises:
- While driving at slow speeds or over rough roads, listen for any unusual clunking, knocking, or squeaking noises coming from the suspension components. These noises can indicate worn-out or damaged parts.
Uneven Tire Wear:
- Inspect your tires for uneven wear patterns. If you notice uneven tire wear, it could be a sign of suspension problems. Worn-out or misaligned suspension components can cause tires to wear unevenly.
Steering and Handling:
- Pay attention to how your vehicle handles while driving. If you experience excessive body roll during cornering, a harsh ride, or a tendency to pull to one side, it could be due to suspension issues.
Check for Leaks:
- Inspect the shock absorbers or struts for any signs of fluid leakage. A leaking shock or strut is a clear indication that it needs replacement.
Get a Professional Inspection:
- If you are unsure about the condition of your suspension or suspect any issues, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle. They can use specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and address suspension problems accurately.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn-out suspension components are essential for vehicle safety and ride comfort. Neglecting suspension wear can lead to reduced handling, increased braking distance, and compromised safety on the road. If you suspect any issues with your vehicle’s suspension, it’s best to have it checked by a professional mechanic.

How do you check for suspension damage?

Checking for suspension damage requires a careful inspection of various suspension components to identify any signs of wear, damage, or problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check for suspension damage:

Visual Inspection:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Walk around the vehicle and visually inspect the suspension components, including:
  - Shocks or struts: Look for signs of leaks, dents, or damage to the outer housing.
  - Springs: Check for any visible cracks, breaks, or signs of sagging.
  - Control arms: Inspect for bent or damaged control arms, as well as worn-out bushings.
  - Ball joints: Look for excessive play, cracks, or damage in the ball joint boots.
  - Tie rod ends: Examine the tie rod ends for any signs of wear, such as torn boots or loose connections.
  - Sway bar links and bushings: Check for damaged or worn-out components.
  - Steering linkage: Inspect the various steering components, such as the pitman arm, idler arm, and steering gear, for damage or play.
  - Wheel bearings: Listen for any unusual noises while spinning each wheel by hand.
Check for Fluid Leaks:
- Examine the shock absorbers or struts for any signs of fluid leakage. A leaking shock or strut is a clear indicator of damage and requires replacement.
Bounce Test:
- Stand next to each corner of your vehicle and push down on it, applying your body weight. Release the pressure and observe the vehicle’s response.
- A healthy suspension should compress and then quickly return to its normal position without excessive bouncing. If the vehicle continues to bounce or feels excessively bouncy, it could indicate damaged or worn-out shocks or struts.
Listen for Unusual Noises:
- While driving at slow speeds or over rough roads, listen for any unusual clunking, knocking, or squeaking noises coming from the suspension components. Unusual noises can be a sign of damaged or worn-out parts.
Uneven Tire Wear:
- Inspect your tires for uneven wear patterns. Uneven tire wear can result from suspension problems, such as misalignment or worn-out components.
Steering and Handling:
- Pay attention to how your vehicle handles while driving. If you experience excessive body roll during cornering, a harsh ride, or a tendency to pull to one side, it could be due to suspension issues.
Get a Professional Inspection:
- If you are unsure about the condition of your suspension or suspect any issues, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic or suspension specialist inspect your vehicle. They can use specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and address suspension damage accurately.

Regular inspections and prompt repairs of damaged suspension components are crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance. If you suspect any suspension damage, it’s essential to address it promptly to avoid further complications and ensure a safe driving experience.