Why Does My Suspension Feel Bouncy?

Is your car bouncing around the road after you hit a pothole?  Does it feel like your car is floating down the road instead of feeling firm and responsive?  If you’re noticing excessive movement every time you hit even the smallest bump in the road, your vehicle’s suspension system might be worn out and ready for some attention. As Summerlin’s trusted auto repair experts, we’re here to help you understand what’s causing that uncomfortable bounce and how to fix it.

A properly functioning suspension is crucial for both your comfort and safety.  It’s not just about a smooth ride.  Your suspension affects everything from handling and braking to tire wear and overall vehicle control.  It is common not to realize how bad your suspension is worn out until you have a passenger ask “What’s wrong with your car?” or you come from driving another vehicle.  The normal wear and tear of your suspension is gradual and can go unnoticed for a long time.

Signs Your Suspension Is Too Bouncy

Your car’s suspension should quickly stabilize after encountering road irregularities like bumps and normal road transitions.  If you’re experiencing continued bouncing after hitting bumps or dips, that’s your first red flag.  Watch out for the front of your car nose diving when you apply the brakes.  This shouldn’t happen with healthy suspension components.  Another telltale sign is excessive swaying during lane changes or turns, which can make your vehicle feel unstable and potentially dangerous. You might also notice uneven tire wear patterns, which often indicate suspension problems.

Common Causes of Bouncy Suspension

Worn Shocks or Struts

Most bouncy suspension issues can be traced back to a few key components. Worn shock absorbers or struts are the most common culprits. These parts are designed to dampen your car’s movement.  Your shock absorbers are used in conjuction with a spring to support the weight of your vehicle.  When a spring hits a bump it takes that energy and oscillates.  The shock absorber “dampens” that oscillation and helps your tires keep a firm grip on the road.  When your shocks wear out, you’ll feel every bump in the road.  

Old or Damaged Springs

Damaged or aging springs can also contribute to the problem, as they lose their ability to properly support your vehicle’s weight.  If your springs are not doing their job of supporting the weight of the vehicle it will force the shock absorbers to take over the job resulting in a rough or bouncy ride.

Faulty Strut Mounts

Failing strut mounts are another suspension component that can cause your suspension to be bouncy.  Typically you will hear a clunking noise when you go over bumps when they have failed.  Bad mounts allow excessive movement, creating a bouncy sensation.  These are often overlooked when replacing shocks and struts, but it is best practice to replace them at the same time.

Worn-Out Ball Joints

Another potential cause of suspension bounciness are worn ball joints.  A ball joint connects your control arms to the steering knuckles.  Like a failing strut mount ball joints can make a clunking sound when you go over bumps.  Worn ball joints cause play in your suspension and that extra movement can translate to a bouncing or loose sensation.

Damaged or Aging Bushings

Various bushings found in control arms, subframes and other suspension components can also contribute to a bouncy suspension.  These bushings are meant to isolate the vibrations from the metal components they are connected to.  When they are worn you can feel like your car is loose and uncontrollable in addition to some potential vibrations you may feel in the car.

Tire Issues

Tires can also cause your car to feel like you are bouncing down the road.  Underinflated tires will act like a bouncy ball and over-inflated tires will transmit more road impacts through the steering wheel.  You can also get a bouncing effect when your tires have worn out from bad suspension components.  If your suspension has issues it can cause the tire to skip down the road causing flat spots on the tire that will bounce your car around.  Bad suspension components will also cause the alignment geometry of your suspension to be off causing irregular wear on the tire causing to bounce down the road instead of rolling smoothly over road irregularities

When to Get Your Suspension Checked

Don’t wait until your car feels like a pogo stick to get your suspension checked. Most manufacturers recommend suspension inspections every 50,000 miles, but you should get checked sooner if you notice any performance issues. Warning signs like uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or that continuing bounce after bumps shouldn’t be ignored. Remember, your suspension isn’t just about comfort – it’s a crucial safety system that affects your vehicle’s stability and handling.

Professional Suspension Service at Red Rock Repair Las Vegas

At our Summerlin shop, we take a comprehensive approach to suspension problems.  Our ASE-certified technicians use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your suspension issues.  We offer complete suspension services, from shock and strut replacement to full system overhauls.  Our local expertise means we understand the unique challenges Summerlin drivers face, and we tailor our services accordingly.

Taking care of your suspension isn’t just about comfort – it’s about safety and protecting your investment in your vehicle.  If you’re experiencing any bouncing or handling issues, schedule an inspection with us today.  Our experienced team will ensure your car rides smoothly and safely.

Contact us today at (702) 385-7887 or schedule online with us to secure your suspension service. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and we’re here to help keep your vehicle performing at its best!