Bushings are the most common joints in your suspension system and also the most likely to case a squeaky suspension. Bushingsīushings are used if the joint only needs to move in one direction, such as up and down or side to side. If you find a ball joint with a torn boot, consider replacing it. If the boot rips these joints can start to make squeaks when you turn. Ball joints sometimes have grease fittings in the cup and a rubber boot containing the grease.
Ball joints are much like your shoulder or hip joint where a stainless steel ball fits in a Teflon cup and provides the range of motion and rigidity needed. For example, the joint at the end of your lower control arm that connects to the steering knuckle needs to move up and down as the spring compresses, but also turn as you turn the steering wheel. Ball Jointsīall joints are used when the joint must be able to move in multiple plans such as rotating and moving up and down. There are three types of joints commonly used in your suspension components. Each one of these components have a joint on each end that could be the source of your noise. There will also be control arms, struts, steering linkages, tie rods, and/or track bars linking the wheels to the vehicle. You also have a shock absorber by each wheel and in most cases a sway bar or anti-roll bar both in the front and in the back. Your vehicle’s weight is supported using coil springs, leaf springs or torsion bars. Ī squeaky suspension system is not just embarrassing with those squeaking noises and grinding noises, but it is also dangerous and can be extremely difficult to diagnose and fix. The setup of your vehicle’s suspension is extremely important as is explained in this extensive article about steering geometry. Suspension issues can also cause your steering geometry to be incorrect which can lead to increased tire wear and difficulty negotiating turns. Besides the annoying noise, a broken suspension system in your vehicle can increase the likelihood of rollovers, make it difficult to control your vehicle in corners and can increase your stopping distance in an emergency.
Squeaky suspensions are not just embarrassing, they can also be an indication that there is a big problem with your suspension. Why is My Car Squeaking? Is it a Sign of Bigger Problems? Speed bumps can become embarrassing and, although it’s good exercise, you park as far away from the door of your office building as you can so no one hears you pulling into your parking spots.
Every time you go over even the smallest bump or make a turn, you have to deal with the squeaks and creaks of your suspension. Having a squeaky suspension can be one of the most frustrating problems to have in any vehicle.