Your vehicle’s suspension system is built to keep your ride smooth and stable—but when something starts to go wrong, it often makes itself known with unusual noises. If your car has started creaking, clunking, or rattling when you drive, especially over bumps or turns, it could be your suspension asking for attention.
Here’s what those noises might mean and why it’s best to have them checked out sooner rather than later.
Clunking Over Bumps or Dips
If you hear a heavy clunk when driving over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven pavement, it often points to a worn or broken suspension component. Common culprits include ball joints, control arms, or struts that have developed excessive play. This sound usually comes from a loose or shifting part moving more than it should as the suspension flexes.
Ignoring a clunk can lead to poor handling and premature tire wear—not to mention more expensive repairs if the component fails completely.
Creaking or Groaning When Turning
Creaking noises during turns often come from worn bushings or aging suspension mounts. These rubber components are designed to absorb movement and reduce vibration, but they break down over time due to heat, moisture, and everyday wear. As they dry out or crack, the metal components they cushion begin to rub against each other.
While this might not cause immediate damage, it’s a sign the parts are getting close to needing replacement.
Squeaking at Low Speeds
If you hear a squeaking sound when slowly pulling into a driveway or cruising through a parking lot, it could be dry or worn suspension components—such as sway bar links or shocks. In some cases, squeaking might also come from dry rubber parts in the suspension flexing under load.
This noise tends to get worse in wet or cold weather and can be a sign that your suspension is overdue for service.
Rattling From the Undercarriage
A constant rattling sound, especially when driving on rough roads, might suggest loose or broken components in the suspension or steering systems. Strut mounts, tie rod ends, and even loose brackets can cause a rattling or jingling sound when they’re no longer properly secured.
This type of noise may seem minor at first, but over time, it can affect alignment and handling.
Bottoming Out or Thudding
A deep thud when hitting bumps might mean your shocks or struts are worn and no longer absorbing impacts the way they should. If your car feels like it’s bouncing too much or bottoms out over dips, your suspension’s ability to control motion has been compromised.
This affects not just comfort but also safety—especially during braking or emergency maneuvers.
Hometown Tire and Auto – Suspension Repair You Can Count On in Liberty, TX
At Hometown Tire and Auto in Liberty, TX, our team knows how to track down the cause of suspension noises and restore quiet, comfortable performance. If your car is making sounds it shouldn’t—or just doesn’t feel right on the road—schedule a suspension inspection with us today. We’ll make sure your vehicle stays safe, stable, and ready for whatever lies ahead.