If your car feels bouncy, leans in turns, or takes longer to stop, the suspension system may be to blame. Shocks and struts keep your tires connected to the road and your ride stable, especially during turns, braking, and bumps. When these components start to wear out, your vehicle’s comfort and safety can take a hit.
So how do you know when your shocks or struts are no longer doing their job? Here are the key signs to look for.
Bouncy or Unstable Ride
One of the earliest and most common symptoms of worn shocks or struts is a bouncy ride. If your car continues to bounce after going over a bump, rather than settling quickly, that’s a clear signal that something is off with the suspension.
You may also notice more body roll when turning or nose-diving when braking. These changes often develop slowly, so many drivers don’t notice them right away. But if your vehicle feels less stable than it used to, don’t overlook it.
Unusual Tire Wear
Your shocks and struts help keep your tires in proper contact with the road. When they wear out, your tires may bounce or skip slightly while driving, especially on uneven surfaces. This leads to uneven or cupped tire wear.
If your tires are wearing unevenly despite proper alignment and inflation, the suspension should be checked. Driving with bad shocks or struts can reduce tire life significantly.
Longer Stopping Distances
A worn-out suspension affects your ability to brake effectively. If your car takes longer to stop or dips forward sharply during braking, it could be due to failed front struts or shocks. This isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety. Compromised stopping power can increase your risk of accidents, especially in emergencies.
Even if your brakes are working well, bad suspension can interfere with how your vehicle transfers weight when you stop, leading to unpredictable handling.
Fluid Leaks From the Shock or Strut Housing
Shocks and struts are filled with hydraulic fluid, which helps control motion. If you notice greasy buildup or wetness around the body of these parts, it may be due to a fluid leak. Once enough fluid escapes, the shock or strut will lose its ability to dampen motion, leading to poor ride quality.
Technicians often spot these leaks during routine inspections or oil changes, but you can sometimes see them yourself if you know where to look.
Excessive Vibration at Higher Speeds
If your car feels fine around town but starts to vibrate or shake when you reach highway speeds, worn shocks or struts could be part of the problem. They’re designed to stabilize the vehicle and keep the tires planted as you pick up speed. When they no longer work as intended, that motion can translate into steering wheel shake or an overall unstable feeling at speed.
This kind of vibration may feel similar to tire balancing issues, so it’s worth having both the suspension and tires checked.
Knocking or Clunking Sounds
A knocking or clunking noise coming from your wheels when going over bumps can be a sign of worn strut mounts or internal shock failure. It can also indicate broken bushings or other suspension hardware that’s no longer holding things firmly in place.
While these noises might seem minor at first, they often point to parts that are no longer safe or functional.
Difficulty Steering or Loss of Control
In severe cases, worn shocks or struts can make the car harder to steer accurately. You may feel like the steering is loose or overly sensitive, especially on rough or uneven roads. This can be dangerous, especially in poor weather conditions where traction is already reduced.
Check With the Suspension Pros at Robbie's At Your Service in Merritt Island, FL
If your car doesn’t feel as smooth, stable, or safe as it used to, it may be time for a suspension check. At Robbie's At Your Service in Merritt Island, our team can inspect your shocks, struts, and all suspension components to keep your ride comfortable and under control.
Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a bigger one—book your inspection today and keep your vehicle performing at its best.