Whether on the trails or the freeway, suspension damage is never good. Knowing what causes suspension damage is essential so you can be proactive in preventing and recognizing it if it occurs.
When off-roading, common suspension damage happens when a tire, suspension link, or trailing arm hits an obstacle too hard or at the wrong angle. This suspension damage can lead to shearing components and changing suspension geometry.
On-road suspension damage is often caused by potholes, curbs, and other unexpected obstacles you encounter while driving. Even if you’re 100% focused on the road, unexpected impacts can still occur.
Luckily, 4 Wheel Parts is here to help. Our guide will help you recognize what causes suspension damage, its signs, what to do if your vehicle is damaged, and how to fix it.
How to Tell if Your Suspension is Damaged
How do you know if your suspension is damaged? Several telltale signs can indicate that something is wrong with your vehicle’s suspension. These signs include steering wheel vibration, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride. In the off-roading community, the “three D’s”, known as Death Wobble, Desert Disease, and Drivetrain Death, are the most common causes.
Doing a pre-trip inspection and packing essential spare parts is crucial for off-roading. If you have doubts about how your suspension is performing, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Above all, getting a professional to inspect your suspension or regularly doing it yourself is the best way to keep it in top shape and avoid costly repairs.
Other signs of suspension damage include leaks, strange noises, loose steering feel, and poor driving quality. If you experience any of these symptoms while driving, it’s best to pull over and inspect your rig for damage.
What Causes Suspension Damage?
Several factors cause suspension damage. Uneven terrain, poor driving habits, and a lack of maintenance can all contribute to suspension damage. Poor driving practices are one of the most common causes of suspension damage. On off-road trails, unexpected obstacles, and rough terrain, constantly test your suspension to the max.
Regular wear and tear is another reason for suspension damage. Over time, components like shock absorbers become worn and less effective. Additionally, bushings wear out, springs lose their compression capabilities, and parts break due to age or use.
Lastly, suspension damage is caused by one failed component that affects the rest of the system. If one component goes bad, the other suspension parts must work harder to maintain a smooth ride. Don’t leave things to the last minute. As soon as you notice something is wrong, inspect your rig and repair any damaged parts.
Your Suspension is Broken – Now What?
Now that we know the problem, how do you fix it? You can repair suspension damage in multiple ways. Out on the trails, there is a chance you can limp it home or to a nearby service station. If you’re at home, you can diagnose the issue and check for damage before beginning repairs.
If the problem is minor and requires a few replacement parts, you can try doing the repairs yourself. However, a professional mechanic is your best bet if the suspension damage is severe or involves wheel alignment and the need for specialized equipment.
When selecting a replacement part, look for quality components that are more durable than the originals and come with a good warranty. 4 Wheel Parts offers aftermarket suspension parts from leading brands like FOX Racing Shox, King Shocks, and Bilstein.
Options to Fix Your Suspension
Suspension components are engineered to last for many years. However, if it’s time to replace them, there are two options.
Do it Yourself
If you are reading this, chances are you know yourself around a wrench. Replacing suspension parts is challenging, but it can be done in the comfort of your own garage with quality spare parts. Shocks are the most common parts to fail and are relatively easy to install. You need a few essential tools and a bit of patience.
Swapping out a cracked or dented wheel is another great DIY project. The right tools and a few extra hands will help to make this job much more manageable. Even a weekend warrior can complete the job in a few hours.
Bring it to a Professional
If you don’t have the time or knowledge to repair your suspension, having it done professionally is your best bet. Mechanics will have access to specialized tools and replacement parts that make their job easier. Also, they know how to align and adjust the suspension for optimal performance.
For example, swapping out a steering rack or axle requires specialized tools and know-how. If you’ve never done this stuff before, you might risk damaging your vehicle by attempting these jobs yourself. After all, once everything is back in place, an alignment is needed to ensure everything is working correctly and your vehicle is safe to drive.
Cost of Fixing Vehicle Suspension
There is no fixed cost for fixing a suspension. Your pay depends on how extensive the damage is and how much labor is required. If you’re replacing parts yourself, the labor is, of course, free. But the tools and other accessories need to be taken into account.
Shop prices will be higher, given that you’ll need to pay for labor and parts. Reputable shops like 4 Wheel Parts use quality parts, provide a warranty, and have well-trained technicians.
On average, repairing suspension components costs upwards of $400, including the cost of parts and labor. The total cost depends on how severe the damage is and how much work needs to be done.
In conclusion, driving a car with a damaged suspension can be dangerous. Can you drive a car with a damaged suspension? Sure, but it’s not advisable and can cause further damage to your vehicle. If your suspension requires repair, get it fixed as soon as possible.
4 Wheel Parts offers aftermarket and OEM suspension parts from leading brands to help you fix your vehicle quickly and safely. Shop now and get back to what you like doing most!
2