Your car’s suspension has many functions that go beyond keeping your wheels on the road, it also improves the grip for braking and helps to keep your drive smooth even on bumpy, uneven roads. Most importantly it allows your steering to absorb lateral forces, which helps keep your car stable so it doesn’t roll over. Your car suspension consists of a series of springs, struts and shock absorbers called dampers, and your suspension works hard to keep you safe on the road. Shock absorbers take on the energy when your car drives on rough ground, so your suspension doesn’t move too much. These springs absorb the pressure on the wheels as they move over surfaces, while the struts dampen vibrations and offer structural support for the entire suspension system.
With so much going on that depends on your suspension, it’s important to keep your suspension running smoothly. Also, because your MINI Cooper has European suspension, it is mostly aluminum, while that means that it is lightweight, it means that it is also softer. So as a result, when it gets bumped, it is more prone to bend. This includes simple bumps like hitting a pothole even at moderate speeds.
With all this in mind, it makes good sense to recognize the following warning signs you have suspension problems.
Bouncy Rides:
If it seems that even a small pebble in the road causes your car to start rockin’, then this bouncy ride can be a sign that your suspension might be in need of some repairs.
Drifting Or Pulling:
As you take turns, do you feel like you are drifting or that there is a sense of pulling? If so, then this might be a classic sign that your shocks aren’t keeping your MNI Cooper’s body stable when it experiences the centrifugal force of a turn. This is never good sign as it puts you at risk of taking a roll. At the first sign of drifting, call Foreign Affairs to set up an appointment.
Dips When You Stop:
When you come to a shop and feel like your MINI Cooper is lurching forward, or even feels like it is bending downwards, then that might be a sign that your shocks are shot. Your car should stop when you apply the brakes. You shouldn’t feel like it is lurching or nose-diving. Having a bad suspension can make it difficult to stop suddenly in order to avoid accidents, so when this happens it’s time to visit Foreign Affairs.
Uneven Tire Treads:
Now uneven tire treads can be an indication of a few problems, but it is also a sign that you have bad suspension. This is due to the face that the suspension is not keeping your car and its wheels evenly on the ground. You will see uneven wear and tear on the treads, including bald spots. Uneven pressure while you’re driving is also dangerous, so immediate attention is advised.
Greasy Shock Absorbers:
Now this one is not as easy to spot as it requires you to look under the vehicle. If you have been experiencing any of the above issues, then you might fee inclined to take a look at the shocks and struts. You will want to check to see if they are greasy. This is a sign that they are leaking fluid, meaning something is not working or is damaged. At Foreign Affairs we can always check it for you if the idea of getting down to look yourself sounds like too much work!
Take the Bounce Test:
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above and want to get a better idea if your suspension is shot, then you can take the bounce test. First you will need to place your car in park. Then get out and put your full weight on the front of the car and bounce it a couple of times. Let go and then try the same at the rear. If the car is still rocking or bouncing when you stop, your suspension is definitely in need of repair.
So What Does Repairing Your Suspension Involve?
Because your suspension is so important for a safe, not to mention smooth drive, any of these signs call for an appointment to have it repaired. This is not something you want to ignore or put off. The longer you wait, then the more at risk you are for accidents. Suspension repairs are pretty straight forward, so if you are worried about being out of commission without a car for too long, don’t.
It is also reasonably inexpensive compared to the potential damage caused by an accident due to faulty suspension. To repair your suspension, Foreign Affairs will look at all the components including the shock absorbers, struts, springs, and the entire system’s function. The necessary repairs or replacements will vary based on what parts are worn or damaged.
Schedule your suspension appointment today for the vehicle with the auto mechanics of Foreign Affairs! Schedule an appointment for service. You can find us located at 1681 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33409.
