How serious is a suspension?

Asked by: Melody Robel  |  Last update: July 1, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (17 votes)

You may not think a lot about your car's suspension system, but if it fails, it can quite literally stop you in your tracks. Driving with a broken or worn out suspension system not only puts unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle's tires, but it can put you—and others on the road—at serious risk.

Is it okay to drive with a bad suspension?

When a car's suspension breaks, there are multiple components that could be causing the problem - such as a broken coil spring or a broken shock absorber. However, regardless of what is broken with the car's suspension, you should not drive the vehicle.

Is suspension worth fixing?

A functioning suspension can help keep you comfortable and safe on the road. While car suspension repair can add up quickly, getting your suspension fixed promptly can keep the cost down and prevent other issues, like tires that need to be replaced because they were worn unevenly.

How serious is suspension damage?

Driving a car with a broken or damaged suspension system is like walking with a broken leg. It will feel unbalanced and unstable, which can cause you to lose control of your car or worse.

How long will a suspension last?

Your vehicle's suspension system can last from 50,000 to 100,000 miles if properly maintained.

How to Tell Shocks and Struts Are Worn - Guide to Test Signs and Symptoms

32 related questions found

How long should suspension last?

While the longevity of a suspension system can vary based on many factors, including driving habits or road conditions, it typically lasts for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. For many drivers, it's time to replace the suspension system's shocks or struts after seven or eight years of use.

How much does it cost to replace suspension?

The suspension has many components, and, thus, you can expect the check to be around $1,000-$5,000. However, it's important to be aware of the more costly replacements and procedures: Shock absorber replacement: $200-$1,500. Coil spring replacement: $550-$700.

Can suspension problems be fixed?

Fortunately, fixing steering and suspension problems is an easy fix. Most auto repair shops will do a diagnostics check to rule out any major problems and will tell you what needs to be fixed. However, auto repair shops also are best for major problems.

What does a bad suspension sound like?

Common suspension-related noises include clunking, squeaking, rattling, or knocking sounds. Try to identify when the noise occurs, such as during acceleration, braking, or when going over bumps.

Is suspension serious?

Suspension does not mean an employee has done anything wrong, and should not be used to discipline someone. Being suspended can be stressful for an employee, so it's important that employers: consider the wellbeing and mental health of anyone they're thinking of suspending.

How long does suspension take to fix?

Generally, it takes about two to four hours to replace four shock absorbers, with struts usually taking about an hour longer.

How much to fix suspension joints?

The cost of suspension ball joint replacement varies based on the vehicle's make, model, and year and the type of ball joint used. For mainstream cars, the estimated replacement cost for a single ball joint ranges from $200 to $350, including parts and labor.

How can I tell if my suspension is bad?

How can I tell if my car has suspension problems?
  1. Pulling to one side when driving. ...
  2. Bumpy rides are more common. ...
  3. One corner sits lower than others. ...
  4. Diving, rolling or squatting. ...
  5. Difficulty with steering. ...
  6. Oily shock absorbers.

Can bad suspension damage transmission?

The greatest, and generally last effect, of a worn suspension system is damage to your vehicle. This damage can extend to something as simple as a bent drive shaft to something as extensive as bent control arms, sheared tie rods, a busted transmission or a dead differential.

Does driving fast damage suspension?

Speeding Over Speed Bumps

The damage that you do to your suspension when you hit a speed bump too fast can literally blow out a tire, break a suspension spring, or even the axle if it's old. Speed bumps and dips are designed for slow driving, so take heed and protect your vehicle when you navigate them.

How does a car suspension break?

Over time, when you've “hit” enough of those potholes or went over speed bumps at 30mph , it can damage your car suspension. If you've ever hit a bump hard enough that you “ “bottomed out” aka, the bottom of your car hit the road, you did not do your car suspension a favor.

How long can you drive with bad suspension?

The short answer is no - you should not drive a car with broken suspension. Regardless of whether it's a broken coil spring or a broken shock absorber, you cannot drive a vehicle which has any element of the suspension that is broken.

Can I drive with noisy suspension?

You should not drive with a creaking suspension. Continuing to drive with a squeaky suspension could result in premature tyre damage, poor handling and reduced stability. Put your safety first and have your suspension inspected by a professional mechanic.

What happens when a suspension goes out?

If something in the suspension system goes wrong, you will likely feel it when you steer. You may notice your vehicle pulling to one side, for example. Suspension system issues can cause steering problems, but they can also come from several other factors.

How much should it cost to replace suspension?

The average cost for a Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $984 and $1,102. Labor costs are estimated between $218 and $275 while parts are priced between $766 and $827. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Is it worth it to replace suspension?

Benefits for driving the car

New suspension columns provide better shock absorption and handling of road irregularities, which translates to higher driving comfort. Old and worn components can cause the car to be more susceptible to shocks and vibrations, reducing travel comfort.

Do mechanics fix suspension?

Our qualified auto service mechanics will thoroughly check your suspension system, and let you know if any of its components are damaged or in need of replacement. We'll talk you through the work required and costs charged upfront, so you can get your car in perfect working order for the price you expect.

Can I replace just one suspension?

If you only replace one side of an axle, it can create uneven damping characteristics. This imbalance can cause the new shock to overcompensate causing them to wear out faster and can also lead to the premature failure of other suspension components.

Can you drive a car that needs a new suspension?

Driving with a broken or worn out suspension system not only puts unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle's tires, but it can put you—and others on the road—at serious risk. Your vehicle's suspension is a system of parts that essentially connect your car to the wheels.

What happens if you don't replace suspension?

Loss of handling and control – Driving with failing shocks or struts has a direct impact on your ability to control your vehicle. You may notice that your vehicle bounces excessively, rolls or sways abruptly when making a turn, or that you feel out of control when hit by a cross wind.