What Causes Abnormal Noise from Shock Absorbers?
4 Answers
Generally, when a car makes abnormal noises while driving on bumpy roads, it indicates that the shock absorber may be damaged. The specific possible reasons are as follows: 1. Damaged shock absorber: When the vehicle's shock absorber is damaged, the coordination between its components is compromised, causing a clunking noise during operation on bumpy roads. 2. Damaged shock absorber top mount: The front shock absorber top mount, made of rubber material, primarily assists the shock absorber and spring in providing cushioning and damping effects. When the top mount is damaged due to excessive wear, it not only produces noise during operation but also generates noise when turning the steering wheel while stationary, even if the shock absorber is not engaged.
I've been driving for so many years, and it's quite common to hear noises from the shock absorbers. I've encountered this issue several times. The reasons can vary—often, it's due to oil leakage in the shock absorbers, which reduces lubrication and increases internal friction, resulting in squeaking or clicking sounds. If internal components like springs or pistons are worn out, the damping effect weakens, causing a clunking noise when going over speed bumps or rough roads. Sometimes, it's just loose bolts, aging rubber bushings, or debris stuck in the gaps, all of which can cause unusual noises. This issue shouldn't be taken lightly, as it directly affects handling and ride comfort. On long drives, excessive bouncing can lead to uneven tire wear and increased fuel consumption. I recommend visiting a professional repair shop immediately to have a technician check if parts need replacement or tightening. During regular car washes, do a quick inspection around the tires for any oil stains—prevention is key for safety and peace of mind. Ignoring it could be dangerous; a friend of mine once faced a loss of control on the highway due to neglected shock absorber issues.
As a young car enthusiast, the abnormal noise from shock absorbers is really annoying. My newly bought car started squeaking not long after purchase. Possible causes include damaged oil seals leading to oil leakage and friction sounds due to insufficient lubrication, or worn internal components of the shock absorber causing clunking sounds when going over bumps. Loose installation screws can also be a culprit. After noticing the noise, I found the ride comfort significantly reduced, with uncomfortable swaying on bumpy roads, making it easy to get distracted while driving. A quick inspection revealed uneven tire wear. Fortunately, the issue was resolved at the 4S shop where they replaced the faulty parts, and now it's much quieter. My advice: don't ignore such minor issues; get them checked and fixed promptly—small expenses can prevent bigger troubles. Always pay attention to road feedback during daily driving for early detection and repair.
Common causes of shock absorber noise: squeaking due to oil leakage or lack of lubrication; clunking sound when going over bumps due to internal part wear; loud noise from loose connections or foreign objects stuck inside. It is recommended to inspect and address the issue immediately to prevent further damage; repairs may involve replacing components or tightening screws. Abnormal noises affect driving comfort and safety and should not be ignored; timely diagnosis and repair by a professional shop ensures safety and reliability. Do not delay to prevent accidents; regular maintenance is the best prevention.
