If your car feels like it’s bobbing over bumps, pulling to one side, or making clunking noises, the suspension is probably the culprit. Most drivers don’t think about it until something goes wrong, but a quick check can save you from costly repairs. Below are the everyday signs to watch for and practical steps you can take before you call a garage.
Bent or damaged components. Look under the car for any parts that look twisted, cracked, or out of alignment. A bent control arm or damaged strut can cause uneven handling and excess tire wear.
Uneven tire wear. If the tread is wearing more on one edge, the suspension isn’t keeping the wheels level. Check the front and rear tires; irregular patterns usually point to a suspension or alignment issue.
Excessive bounce. Push down on the front or rear of the car and let go. One or two bounces are normal, but if it keeps bouncing, your shocks or struts are worn out.
Noise when turning or going over bumps. Clunks, squeaks, or rattles that change with speed or steering angle often mean a loose bolt, worn bushing, or broken mount.
Start with a visual walk‑around. Make sure all bolts on the suspension arms, struts, and mounts are tight. Use a socket wrench to give each nut a good snug‑up—never overtighten, just eliminate any play.
If you spot a cracked bushing, you can replace it yourself with a bushing kit. The process generally involves removing the affected arm, pulling out the old bushing with a press tool, and pressing the new one in. It’s a bit messy but doable with a few basic tools.
For worn shocks or struts, the swap is straightforward: lift the car, remove the wheel, detach the top and bottom mounts, and slide the old unit out. Slide the new shock or strut in, re‑attach the mounts, and repeat on the other side. Re‑torque all bolts to the manufacturer’s spec (usually listed in the service manual or on a sticker in the engine bay).
After any suspension work, a wheel alignment is a must. Even if you only tightened bolts, the geometry can shift. Many local shops will do a quick alignment for under £30, which is far cheaper than premature tyre wear.
When you’re unsure about a part’s condition, give it a gentle shake. Grab the lower control arm and wiggle it; you should feel very little movement. Any play means the bushings or ball joints need replacement.
Lastly, keep an eye on fluid leaks. Some strut assemblies have built‑in shock absorbers that contain oil. A dark puddle under the car suggests a seal failure, and the whole strut will need swapping.
Remember, the suspension is what keeps your car glued to the road. Regular checks every 10,000 miles or after a hard bump can catch problems early. If you encounter a broken spring, a severely bent arm, or persistent handling issues after your DIY fixes, it’s time to let a professional take over. They have the equipment to safely replace springs, test load‑bearing components, and ensure the chassis is correctly aligned.
Fixing suspension issues yourself can save you money and give you a deeper understanding of how your car works. Follow the steps above, stay safe on the jack stands, and enjoy a smoother, more controlled ride.
