Springs are the core of all suspension systems.
They are compressible links between the frame, body and tires which carry the weight of the car and all of its recipients, absorbs shock from different forces and maintains the riding height while doing both of these things. There are different types of springs that are designed for different vehicles and suspension systems; namely Coil springs, Air springs, Single-leaf springs and Multi-leaf springs.
These automotive springs are classified by the amount they compress under a specific load. This is referred to as the spring rate. A force applied to a spring causes it to compress in direct proportion to the force applied. When that force is removed, the springs return to its original position if it isn’t overloaded. This is why a heavier vehicle needs stiffer springs than a much smaller vehicle.
If any of these springs become worn over time they will directly compromise many of the other systems on the suspension. You will almost immediately be able notice if there are any problems with your springs and suspension system, your car from being completely stable and straight will have the co-ordinance if a man under the influence
Pulling to One Side While Driving
Underinflated Tire With Wear An underinflated tire is a common reason for your car pulling, and a problem easily fixed.
Pulling to the left or right is the most common sign of suspension problems. It can also be one of the hardest problems to diagnose without the help of a professional. Tires need to be aligned precisely for toe-in, caster and camber. Poor alignment means uneven tire wear, annoying pulling, a constant fight with the steering wheel, and even decreased gas mileage. Your vehicle could be pulling for any number of reasons:
- Uneven tire pressure
- Uneven tire wear
- Poor alignment
- Bad tie rods or steering rack
- Sticking brake calliper
If you blow through a pothole or climb over a curb or two, your alignment can get out of whack. Sudden changes in alignment don’t happen magically. Something broke. It could be a broken spring or control arm.
Feeling every bump on the road
Leaf springs may sometimes cause problems with excessive bouncing. You can double check the possibility of a busted leaf spring by checking if the car or truck seems to “lean” back in a standing position. Many trucks are designed to be “nose down” to accommodate extra weight in the rear. If your pickup truck appears to sit level, it could be extra proof of an issue with a leaf spring.
One Corner of the Car is Sitting Low
When your car is on level ground, but one corner sits lower than the others, you’ve likely got a damaged spring. You may notice a clunking noise when going over bumps, and cornering could be compromised, because a damaged spring can’t support the weight. The relationship between the shock and the spring is the main contributor to this problem. A blown shock may cause an over compression of the spring and lower sitting height. A blown shock doesn’t have a direct impact on height, but it will make a car react poorly in bad road conditions.
Difficult Steering
If you find steering is especially difficult, especially when you’re moving slowly, something might be wrong with your suspension. Sometimes the steering may feel like it’s “slipping” when you turn the wheel or hold it in a turned position. Any number of components in your power steering system could be a source of these issues, including:
- Low power steering fluid
- Worn or loose power steering belt
- Faulty power steering pump
- Leaking power steering rack
- Worn control arm bushings
Having springs and suspension problems, be sure to give us a call or come on down to our workshop at 3 Groom Street Verulam and we will diagnose the problem and have fixed before it causes more damage to your vehicle.
