A car's suspension is a key component of your vehicle, connecting the wheels to the body and maintaining proper steering. Over time, the vehicle suspension's shocks and struts will experience wear and need to be repaired or replaced. Fortunately, there are several ways to know if your suspension is in need of attention so you can avoid more serious vehicle damage. Here are three major signs that your car needs suspension maintenance.

How to Know if Your Car Needs Suspension Repair

1. Uneven Tire Wear

If your car's suspension isn't distributing the weight of the vehicle properly, it can cause uneven pressure on the tires. This uneven pressure causes the tires to wear down at different rates. When there is a visibly noticeable difference in the tread wear on your tires, have the car inspected. Bald spots are also indicators of suspension issues.

2. Clunking Noises

If you experience knocking or clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven spots in the road, this may be due to a suspension problem. The struts are structural components within the suspension system and have several parts that experience wear and tear throughout the life of your car. When they are worn out, they will create noises coming from the back or front of your vehicle. Worn-out struts will also cause you to experience a rougher ride, and driving over bumps in the road may feel more bouncy than usual.

3. Pulling or Drifting Turns

The shocks within your vehicle suspension keep the car stable and straight while turning. If you feel as though your turns aren't as smooth or the car is being pulled in a certain direction, have your vehicle checked for worn or damaged shocks. If neglected, bad shocks can lead to serious problems like rollovers. If you experience any swerving while braking, have a mechanic check the shocks' fluid levels and perform any repairs immediately. 

If you're experiencing signs of worn or damaged vehicle suspension, come to the experts at Alaskan Auto Center in Anchorage. This quality auto repair shop has been servicing both foreign and domestic cars for over 17 years. They also provide winterization services to keep your vehicle running smoothly during the colder months. Visit their website for more information, or call (907) 522-7035 to book an appointment today.