4 Signs of a Malfunctioning Suspension System to Watch For After Automotive School
Believe it or not, many vehicle owners take for granted all the work their suspension system does for them while they drive to their day to day activities. Auto mechanics know how hard the suspension system works to ensure a smooth ride, and it does much more than just that. This may be news to many vehicle owners, but trained auto mechanics know that suspension systems have many functions, including providing traction and keeping the wheels on the ground as much as possible.
Major suspension problems can be quite dangerous and can greatly affect the ability to maintain control of a vehicle. These issues are magnified when trying to stop or turn, so suspension system upkeep is essential to the longevity of the car and safety of the driver. You will want to be familiar with the telltale signs of a malfunctioning suspension system after your mechanic training, so keep reading to learn what to look for.
You Notice Pulling to One Side When Driving
Pulling to one side while driving means there could be an issue with the tires, shock absorbers, or brakes. After auto mechanic school, you’ll find that test driving clients’ cars can be an important step to diagnosing and resolving certain issues. If the vehicle is pulling, usually the first thing checked is the tires, and if the issue persists, then it’s likely an issue with the suspension system.
There will also be visible signs of wear or damage on the shock absorbers if the problem is a result of a bad suspension system. The shocks are no longer keeping the vehicle’s body stable against the force of the turn, and the risk of a rollover is increased.
You Receive Complaints that the Car Rides Rough After Your Auto Mechanic Training
One function of the suspension system is to smooth out bumps in the road for a more pleasant driving experience. Some clients may come to you after your auto mechanic training and complain of a noticeable difference in the way the vehicle drives, stating that it’s more bumpy and bouncy. This type of rough ride is an obvious indicator that the vehicle’s suspension needs some work.
You Can See Irregular Tire Wear
If you take a look at the vehicle’s tires and can see that the tread is wearing down unevenly, you may want to begin looking at the suspension for damage. You’ll quickly learn that when the suspension is bad, it can no longer hold the car evenly on its base, creating uneven wear on the tires. You may also notice balding spots on the tires due to the suspension issues.
You Experience Diving and Squatting While Driving
If you test drive the car and the nose of the vehicle dips or “nose dives” during deceleration, you need to take a look at the suspension. The car may also “squat” as you accelerate, where the body of the vehicle leans backwards as you speed up.
Auto professionals know that a bad suspension showing these symptoms can actually prevent the vehicle from being able to stop properly. It can increase stopping time by 20%, which clearly is an issue for the safety of both the driver and others on the road. You want to address these issues as soon as possible to prevent your client from driving any further in these dangerous conditions.
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