Your car’s shocks are a critical part of the suspension system and play a crucial role in maintaining ride comfort and vehicle control. They’re designed to absorb the impact of bumps in the road, keeping your tires in contact with the ground and your vehicle stable. Over time, however, shocks can wear out and lose their effectiveness. When this happens, you may notice changes in the way your vehicle handles. Ignoring failing shocks can lead to bigger problems, so it’s important to recognize the warning signs early. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Plymouth, MI area. Here are four signs that it may be time to replace your car’s shocks.

A Rougher Ride Than Usual

One of the most common early signs of worn shocks is a noticeably rougher ride. If your vehicle feels like it’s bouncing excessively over minor bumps or swaying more than usual during turns, your shocks may no longer be functioning effectively. A dramatic change in ride comfort often signals shock absorber wear.

Nose Diving When Braking

If you notice your car lurching forward when you brake, it’s a sign that your shocks are no longer absorbing the weight transfer effectively. This condition, known as "nose-diving," can increase your stopping distance and affect your control during emergency braking. Properly functioning shocks help maintain even weight distribution when slowing down, so this symptom should be taken seriously.

Uneven Tire Wear

Worn shocks can lead to uneven or accelerated tire wear. When shocks can’t keep the tires firmly planted on the road, this prevents consistent contact with the pavement. This uneven movement causes patches of increased wear, reducing the life of your tires and affecting traction.

Visible Fluid Leaks

Shocks are filled with hydraulic fluid that helps absorb energy. If you see oily residue on the outside of the shocks, it may indicate a leak. Leaking fluid means the shock is no longer sealed properly and will lose its ability to function correctly. A visual inspection can sometimes reveal this issue before more serious symptoms appear.

Suspension Repair in Plymouth, MI

For expert auto repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625. At our nearby auto shop, we can thoroughly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!