Car Repairs and Other Services You Need
Your car is a high-demand, high-investment machine. It requires constant care and attention. More so than most car owners even realize. The care and attention isn’t just making sure the interior looks good, but that every part of your car is optimized for performance. For example, your car suspension is necessary, but can easily be damaged. Actually, it can be difficult to diagnose, but suspension repair and installation should not be neglected or taken lightly. If you need more information regarding your car suspension in Hopewell and Pennington, NJ, contact European Plus at 609-737-7226.
Causes of Suspension Issues
When you need suspension repair on a car, there can be a variety of reasons for that. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to hone in on exactly what caused the problem or issue with your suspension. That being said, there are several things you can pay attention for that may indicate suspension problems.
- Pulling to One Side: While you are driving, if you find the steering wheel pulling to the left or right, it could be an indication of suspension problems. Unfortunately, your wheel pulling could be for a variety of other reasons, but more than likely it is the suspension.
- Rough Riding: If you can feel every single bump while you are driving, your struts are most likely worn out. Struts contain shocks, among other things, which help absorb a great deal of the impact when you are driving. When they are worn out or damaged, they won’t be able to effectively absorb shock, making your drive uncomfortable.
- One Corner Sitting Low: When your car is parked on level ground, but you notice that one side is sitting lower than the others, it could be an indication of several things. Of course, it could just be a low tire, but it could also be a damaged suspension. Test this by pressing down on the trunk and listening to how the suspension reacts. Creaking sounds are a definite indication of suspension issues.
- Diving or Rolling: If you notice your car diving forward when you break or rolling back when you press the gas, your suspension is damaged. Specifically, you struts are damaged. Basically your shocks aren’t able to absorb the momentum to stop or propel your car forward.
- Difficulty Steering: While you are driving and you notice that you are having to force the steering wheel left or right, you probably have a suspension problem. Again, it could be from a whole host of other reasons, but it will likely be due a damaged suspension or struts
The major problem with diagnosing suspension problems is that the issues listed above could be the result of so many other things. Not everything can be traced back to a damaged suspension, but that doesn’t mean you should dismiss or neglect it. If you are ever concerned about anything you are noticing with your car, don’t be afraid to schedule suspension service. It is possible to get your hands on something like a suspension repair kit, but there is a big warning that we want to express. Unless you have experience working on or repairing a car suspension it is not recommended to attempt any repairs. Otherwise, you can risk further damage that may ultimately cost more.
Preventing Future Problems
In order to prevent future issues with your suspension, there are actually a couple of things you can do. The most important step is to schedule regular maintenance for your vehicle. Have a technician go over things like:
- Wheels or Tires: Your tires are very much a part of your suspension. Regularly checking the air and tire pressure will help reduce potential damage.
- Struts and Shocks: Shocks are a key component of the struts, which are a key component of your suspension. The correct suspension repair tools will be able to fix problems with either.
- Steering System: Just like the tires, your steering wheel is a part of the suspension, since it is needed to direct the front tires. Checking the hydraulic fluid for your power steering and other connections can help prevent issues, or at least make diagnosing them easier.
The ultimate piece of advice that can be given, really, is to schedule regular maintenance. Keeping up with maintenance will help your car last significantly longer. Another way to help keep your car lasting longer is through the exhaust. Consider the Magnaflow exhaust systems when you want a truly reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I drive with bad suspension?
- Technically, you can but the drive will be very rough. That being said, it is not recommended that anyone drive with bad suspension. Doing so can result in further damage that will encompass more than the suspension, which could cost even more money.
- What causes car suspension problems?
- Driving on roads with a lot of potholes or just generally driving on roads that will require your suspension to compensate for a lot of shock absorption.
- How long does it take to replace suspension?
- Depending on the level of experience of you mechanic, it could take anywhere from 2-3 hours. That is also assuming the suspension has minor damage. If the damage is more extensive, then it could take longer.
- What happens if you don’t fix your suspension?
- You could end up with a completely broken suspension, a broken tire rod, a broken spring, or even a broken control arm. All are necessary components to safe driving in a vehicle of any kind.
- How long does a car suspension last?
- It’s hard to put a number of years or miles on how long a suspension will last because there are so many variables. Generally speaking, though, struts have a tendency to last about 4-5 years, but again that can vary based on many other factors.
Connect With European Plus for Any Car Repair Needs
Learn why so many clients choose European Plus when they need help with their car suspension in Hopewell and Pennington, NJ. Give us a call at 609-737-7226 to learn more today!