Is It Normal for Shock Absorbers to Make Noise in Winter?
3 Answers
In winter, it is normal for a car's shock absorbers to make noise because the low temperatures cause the buffer rubber on the shock absorbers to harden, resulting in noise when driving over bumpy roads. This noise can be ignored as it is a normal occurrence. Below are detailed explanations: 1. Rubber products will age over time, and once they age, they also become harder. To solve this issue, the shock absorber buffer rubber needs to be replaced with a new one. The buffer rubber on the shock absorbers helps absorb more impact, protecting the car body and improving ride comfort. 2. In fact, there are many rubber components in a car, and all of them will age over time. These rubber parts are considered wear-and-tear items and need to be replaced periodically. If they are not replaced for a long time, they can affect the car's driving quality and comfort, as well as produce various noises, significantly impacting the driving experience and feel.
I've been driving for ten years and noticed that the shock absorbers tend to squeak in winter. This is normal because the cold makes the oil inside thicker and the rubber gaskets harder, causing friction noises. It's most noticeable when starting the car cold in the morning, but the sound gradually disappears as the car warms up after driving for a while. However, if the abnormal noise persists or is accompanied by body shaking, something might be wrong, like oil leakage or rusted springs, and you should get it checked at a repair shop immediately. I had this issue last year myself, and after a minor repair, everything was back to normal. I recommend parking less outdoors in winter and storing the car in a garage whenever possible to reduce such troubles. After all, safety comes first, and getting into the habit of regular car maintenance will help you avoid minor issues.
As a seasoned driver, I've witnessed countless instances of shock absorber noise in winter. The primary culprit is thickened fluid in cold temperatures, with rubber aging also being common; if the noise disappears as the weather warms up, it's usually fine. But if the noise persists along with unstable handling, there might be a real issue. From my experience, the noise occurs most frequently during periods of large temperature differences between day and night. Regular checks of antifreeze and bolt tightness can prevent major problems. Remember not to ignore it—safe driving relies on attention to detail, and a professional inspection can provide much-needed peace of mind.
