An important part of the suspension is the shock absorbers. These are usually hydraulic or gas filled. They are essential to control the bounce on the vehicle and to ensure the tyres are kept firmly on the road. Damaged and worn shock absorbers can reduce the braking efficiency, cause poor cornering and tyre wear.

It is very important to have regular checks on your vehicle, whether it is every 6 or 12 months, to ensure that the ride comfort and suspension system are kept at an optimum level. At ADL Motors in Chertsey the suspension system is fully checked over as part of our routine servicing to make sure that you remain as safe and comfortable as possible.

On the suspension system there are many moving parts, the main component of which is rubber that can dry out over a period of time and can crack and perish. In the worst situation the rubber components can split.

You may be able to recognise when a component has become defective, some of the effects could be:

  • When pulling away from a standstill a knocking noise may be heard from the front of the vehicle.
  • When travelling along uneven surfaces, a knocking noise may be heard from either the front or the rear of the vehicle.
  • Vehicle wandering at speed, what’s known in the trade as the ‘tail wagging the dog’.

So any unusual noises should be investigated as soon as possible.