Car Front Suspension: Noise and How to Fix It

A car’s suspension and  shock absorbers are connected to each other. However, they perform different functions:

• Suspension: The main function is to keep the wheels in contact with the ground, absorb shocks and road irregularities, provide passenger comfort and ensure vehicle stability;
• Shock absorber: works to decrease and control spring oscillations and vibrations, ensuring the tyres stay in full contact with the ground. They help prevent the vehicle from bouncing excessively when going over a bump or irregularity in the road, contributing to a smooth, safe ride.

• What Are The Components Within the Front Suspension?

• A car’s front suspension is made up of several components that work together to provide stability, comfort, and control. The main components within the front suspension are:

  • Shock absorbers: which control the movement of the springs, helping absorb bumps and maintain vehicle stability;
  • Springs: responsible for absorbing road irregularities and supporting vehicle weight;
  • Upper and lower control arms: connect the wheels to the vehicle frame, allowing for the wheels to move vertically while controlling their position and alignment;
  • Stabiliser bar: keeps your vehicle from rolling over on curves while maintaining stability;
  • Ball joints or joints: allow the wheels to rotate and absorb movements, contributing to suspension flexibility;
  • Bushings: are rubber or polyurethane parts that help absorb vibrations and shocks, reducing noise and maintaining part stability;
  • Pivots and bearings: components that allow wheels to rotate and maintain their structural integrity.

  • What Are The Most Common Malfunctions in Suspension Systems?

  • The most common problems in suspensions, including the front suspension, are:

    • Steering problems;
    • Damaged stabiliser bar;
    • Loss of shock absorber fluid;
    • Front suspension part wear;
    • Misalignment or loose components;
    • Noise in the front suspension, such as creaking or banging.

    • What Are The Symptoms of Car Front Suspension Failure?

    • Some of the most common signs of front suspension problems include:

      • Pulling to one side;
      • Creaking front suspension;
      • Irregularly worn tyres;
      • Abnormal vibrations in the steering wheel or car body while driving.

      • Solving Front Suspension Problems

      • When dealing with suspension problems, it is crucial that you act quickly to ensure that vehicle safety and performance are maintained. As such, you should:

        • Perform regular visual inspections to detect signs of suspension wear;
        • Take your car on a test drive to look out for any symptoms of problems, such as noise in the car’s suspension or other signs.

        If you suspect suspension problems, take your car to a qualified mechanic for a detailed inspection using specialised equipment.

        Depending on the mechanic’s assessment, damaged or worn components should be replaced or repaired. This may include changing defective shock absorbers, springs, bushings, or other parts to solve suspension problems.

        Once these parts have been replaced or repaired, it is important to calibrate tyres and wheels to ensure that everything is well set up, preventing uneven tyre wear and future suspension problems.