Lynch Ford Chevrolet

Lynch Ford Chevrolet

Main 319-895-8500 | Service 866-684-4594 | 410 Business 30 SW, Mt Vernon, IA 52314

Why You Should Avoid Potholes

The suspension on your vehicle is designed to provide a smooth driving experience for you and your passengers. The manufacturer puts every model through a series of road tests to ensure that the suspension can navigate rutty backroads and unexpected potholes. However, impacts can damage your suspension over time. Learn more about how you can keep your vehicle riding as smoothly as the day you bought it.

Avoid Potholes

Potholes are one of the biggest causes of damage to suspension components. Sometimes they seem to come out of nowhere and they’re twice as deep as they look. Hitting potholes can damage your tire, wheel, suspension, and even body panels. Hitting potholes can really cause damage to your shocks, struts, suspension arms, and ball joints. The more you hit them, the more wear and tear your suspension will endure. It’s best to avoid them whenever possible.

Slow Down for Speed Bumps

Too often we see people take speed bumps very quickly. Much like the excessive jolt to the suspension when you hit a pothole, hitting a speed bump too fast can cause damage. Make sure you slow down enough to gently navigate over speed bumps to keep your suspension components in good working order. 

Take the Smoother Route

Everyone knows that one road in their city that’s awful. It’s been patched and paved a dozen times. Tree roots are cracking the pavement or the gorgeous cobblestone streets are tattered. It’s best to avoid these areas when possible. It might take you a little more time, but it’ll reduce wear on your suspension components.

Bring Your Vehicle in for a Suspension Inspection

If you notice anything wrong with your suspension, you should bring it in immediately. Signs that your suspension needs attention include:

  • Clunking sounds over bumps
  • Lower ride height on one side
  • Bouncing or vibrations
  • Squatting suspension under acceleration
  • Front end diving under braking
  • Darty handling
  • Uneven tire wear

If you have any of these symptoms or just want us to inspect it for wear, contact the Lynch Ford Chevrolet service team today. Our factory-trained technicians can assess any issues and get your vehicle riding smoothly again.