Hawaii roads can tear up your shocks and struts. Potholes and patched up roads can cause your car’s suspension to take a real beating. A typical shock or strut is designed to have a life of about fifty thousand miles. When your suspension starts to wear out your car’s ride might become harsh, stiff, excessively bouncy, or make strange noises. These things may present a real safety hazard. If your suspension isn’t in great condition, it may cause a reduction in your ability to avoid an obstacle in the road or a compromised handling in an emergency.
The suspension system of a vehicle (i.e. struts or shocks) is something that many people often take for granted. However, it is vital for providing a comfortable, stable, and safe ride. It absorbs the bumps and lumps found in various road surfaces and helps you corner, accelerate, and brake safely.
Over time, the suspension components wears out, and you may start noticing that the ride is rougher than usual. If your suspension system is worn, it can affect the stopping distance by up to 20 percent, which is why it is so important to get problems checked out without delay.
Pearl City Auto Works will inspect your car’s suspension and diagnose any problems right away. We will service any worn suspension component on Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, Honda, Acura, Kia, Hyundai, Mazda, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Dodge, Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile, Volkswagen, & Audi.
Signs of a worn suspension:
1. Car Rides Roughly
Struts or shocks are starting to wear out when they start feeling each bump on the road or when all bumps cause the vehicle to “bounce”. A rough ride is an obvious sign that the suspension system needs repair.
2. Pulling or Drifting When You Turn
If your suspension system is failing, you will often feel your vehicle “pulling” or “drifting” when you drive. It means that suspension component(s) are compromised. If you experience this sensation when you corner, it is time to take the vehicle for servicing in a trusted auto repair shop.
3. Damaged, “Oily” Shocks
If the shocks or struts look oily or greasy, chances are high that they are leaking fluid & the performance is lessened. It is probably the best time to replace those shocks or struts.
4. Uneven Tire Treads
If you notice an uneven wearing of the tire threads or if you start noticing balding spots, this is an indication that the suspension is worn causing the tires to ride improperly. Suspension repair may be needed to avoid further tire damage.
5. Dips or “Nose Dives” When You Stop
If your vehicle’s suspension is worn out, you may feel the body lurching forward and downward nose-first when brakes are firmly applied. This limits your ability to stop the vehicle quickly in an emergency situation.