Your vehicle’s shocks play a vital role in keeping your ride smooth and safe. They help control the movement of your suspension, absorb bumps, and maintain tire contact with the road. Over time, shocks wear down due to regular use and rough roads. When that happens, your car’s handling can suffer—making driving less comfortable and potentially dangerous. At Jake’s Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Phoenix, AZ area. Here are five common warning signs that your vehicle may need new shocks.

Excessive Bouncing After Hitting a Bump

A healthy suspension should absorb a bump quickly and stabilize your vehicle almost immediately. If your car continues to bounce several times after driving over a pothole or speed bump, it’s a strong indication that your shocks are worn out. The bouncing occurs because the shocks are no longer effectively controlling the suspension’s rebound. 

Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

Worn shocks can cause your tires to make inconsistent contact with the road surface, leading to uneven or patchy wear patterns. When your tires don’t stay firmly planted, they lose traction, which can make handling unpredictable. Replacing bad shocks not only improves your ride quality, but also helps extend the lifespan of your tires.

Nose Dives During Braking

If your car’s front end dips sharply when braking, your shocks may be losing their ability to stabilize weight transfer. This imbalance can increase stopping distances, which can in turn pose a safety risk.

Leaking Fluid Around the Shocks

Shock absorbers are filled with hydraulic fluid that helps dampen movement. If you notice oily residue or streaks on the outside of your shocks, it’s a clear sign that fluid is leaking and the component is no longer working properly. 

Poor Handling or Instability

If your car sways excessively around corners or drifts on uneven pavement, your shocks may no longer be providing proper support. This can compromise steering response and increase your risk of losing control in emergency situations.

Suspension Repair in Phoenix, AZ

When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Jake’s Auto Repair at  602-246-4900. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment! And be sure to check out all of our current special offers!