What Causes Suspension Noise in Winter?
3 Answers
The reasons for squeaking noises from car shock absorbers are: Loose shock absorber mounting: Long-term vibrations during driving can cause mounting nuts to loosen, leading to shock absorber noise. Solution: Tighten the mounting nuts. Insufficient shock absorber oil: Lack of oil in the shock absorber can also cause noise. Check for oil leaks. If leaking, it's recommended to replace the shock absorber directly. If not leaking, inspect other components of the shock absorber system. Worn rubber bushings: Worn rubber bushings at both ends of the shock absorber create play at the mounting points, causing noise while driving. Replace the rubber bushings. Component deformation: Deformation of the shock absorber piston rod, cylinder tube, or oil reservoir can cause noise and lead to shock absorber failure, even causing safety hazards. Repair is not recommended (as it's very complicated); instead, replace with a new shock absorber.
I remember my car's shock absorbers used to squeak a lot in winter, which is mainly related to low temperatures. When the temperature drops, the rubber bushings in the shock absorbers harden and lose elasticity, causing friction noises when driving over bumps – really annoying. This might also be due to increased viscosity of the shock oil in winter, leading to insufficient lubrication. I recommend driving slowly for a few minutes after a cold start to warm things up, which can reduce the noise. If the squeaking persists, it's necessary to check whether the shock absorber rubber bushings are cracked or aged, or simply visit a professional auto repair shop to prevent potential shock absorber damage that could affect driving safety. Winter roads are already slippery, so this issue shouldn't be ignored. Addressing it promptly can save a lot of trouble.
As a new driver, I always worry about suspension noises in winter and don't understand why. My friend said it's caused by rubber becoming brittle and lacking lubrication in low temperatures, with the noise being most noticeable when going over speed bumps at low speeds. It might also be related to the car's bumpiness, such as rusted springs or brackets increasing friction. I plan to find time to visit a repair shop to check the suspension condition and get a full vehicle inspection. Usually, avoid slamming on the brakes or accelerating abruptly to protect the suspension system. Regular maintenance can prevent noises, as safety comes first—if it gets serious, it might even affect cornering stability.
