Multiple components work together to create a suspension that allows your vehicle to run smoothly over bumps and negotiate turns. The suspension springs, also known as suspension coil springs, are one of the most vital and long-lasting parts. The coil spring is made from high-grade steel. It acts as a buffer between shocks and the struts, vehicle frames, and lower suspension components. However, although the suspension springs are incredibly durable, sometimes mechanical failures occur.

When a suspension spring is wearing out or has broken, it requires that both sides of the same axle need to be replaced. It is difficult to remove suspension springs. This requires special tools, training, and experience. Wheel Identity will perform the front suspension alignment after you’ve replaced the suspension springs.

Here are some common signs that could indicate a problem in your suspension springs.

1. The vehicle tilts to one side

The suspension springs are responsible for keeping the vehicle balanced on all sides. One of the most common side effects of a suspension spring that has failed or shows signs of premature wear is the appearance of one side being higher than the other. If you notice that your car’s left or right sides appear higher or lower than their counterparts, it is time to have a certified mechanic inspect the problem. This can cause problems with steering, braking, and acceleration.

2. Uneven tire wear

People don’t often check their tires for proper wear. It is acceptable to ask the technician to inspect your tires for proper wear patterns and inflation during routine oil changes. The technician may notice that the tires are wearing unevenly on either the outside or the inside of the tire. This is usually due to a casting or camber suspension alignment problem. A coil spring is one of the most common causes of misaligned front suspension. It is either worn out or must be replaced. You can also notice uneven tire wear while driving when the tire shakes or vibrates at higher speeds. This is a common symptom of tire wheel balance, which should be checked by Wheel Identity.

3. Vehicle bounces more when driving

These springs are also used to keep the vehicle from rolling, especially when it hits potholes and other bumps on the road. It will be easier to compress the suspension spring if it is starting to fail. This will cause the suspension to have less travel, causing it to bounce more often. If your vehicle, truck, or SUV seems to bounce more frequently when you drive over speed bumps, onto a driveway, or under normal driving conditions, a local mechanic will inspect the suspension springs and replace them as necessary.

As mentioned above, the vehicle suspension can move more up and down when the springs are worn or fail. A compressed suspension spring can cause the vehicle to bottom out when it is driving on dips in the road. This can cause significant damage to the undercarriage of the car and other parts of the car including oil pans, driveshaft, transmission, and rear-end housings.

If your vehicle’s bottom is showing, you should take it to a certified mechanic at Wheel Identity. They will inspect, diagnose, and repair the problem as quickly as possible.

Maintaining a good suspension condition will not only improve your vehicle’s comfort and driveability but also extend the life of your tires and other important components. These warning signs can be identified and taken into consideration to preventive measures to ensure that your suspension springs are in top-notch condition.

This post was written by Justin K, owner of Wheel Identity. Wheel Identity is Tampa Bay’s premier tire shop in Tampa. We carry custom wheels and tires for every vehicle, custom suspension kits, and all accessories for the interior or exterior of your vehicle. We only hire highly trained technicians using state-of-the-art equipment with experience in all areas of tire, wheel, suspension, and 4×4 needs.