What Causes the Abnormal Noise When the Car Bumps?

[LolaMarie]

Here are the specific reasons for the abnormal noise when the car bumps: 1. Shock absorber failure: Check if there are gaps in the shock absorber or if the suspension is faulty. If the shock absorber is leaking oil, it may be due to a faulty oil seal gasket, and the shock absorber needs to be replaced. Generally, the service life of a shock absorber is 80,000-100,000 kilometers. 2. Excessive clearance in the steering tie rod ball joint: There may also be abnormal noise when turning. In severe cases, steering wheel vibration and tire wear may occur. 3. Excessive clearance in the lower control arm: Or the lower control arm may be loose. The lower control arm connects the axle and the frame, helping to cushion the impact of bumpy roads on the car.

[DiCalvin]

I've been driving for over a decade, and hearing strange noises when going over bumps is quite common, mostly due to issues with the suspension system. Shock absorbers can wear out over time and may produce squeaking or gurgling sounds on bumpy roads, and springs losing their elasticity can also cause similar noises. Loose chassis components are another major concern—worn ball joints or loose stabilizer bar connections can create friction noises when driving over bumps. As for tires, uneven tire pressure or small stones stuck in the tread can produce sounds while driving. Additionally, interior components like loose seat brackets or too many items in the trunk can rattle when the car shakes. I've experienced this myself, and my go-to method is to stop the car and press firmly on different parts of the body to pinpoint the source of the noise. If you find an issue, it's important to fix it promptly—small problems can escalate and affect driving safety if ignored. Also, if you've modified your car with added underbody protection, loose screws can easily cause rattling. In short, don’t ignore unusual noises—just take your car to a reliable repair shop for a check-up.

[DiEli]

I usually enjoy studying car issues, and bump-related noises can stem from several sources. Mechanical components are the most likely culprits. For example, if the shock absorbers in the suspension system are leaking oil or the springs are fatigued, you might hear a thumping sound when going over bumps. Loose stabilizer bars or control arms can also cause similar noises. In the chassis section, damaged exhaust pipe hangers or worn steering linkage ball joints may produce abnormal sounds under vibration. If the tires have bulges or balancing issues, you’ll hear rhythmic noises at high speeds on bumpy roads. Loose interior trim is another common issue—aging door seals or a loose dashboard can creak when shaken. Pay attention to the characteristics of the noise: if it occurs at specific speeds or directions, it might point to related component issues. When inspecting, close the windows and turn off the music, then drive slowly over a bumpy road to locate the sound. If it’s a simple DIY fix, tighten the screws yourself; for more complex issues, consult a professional. Don’t wait until the car breaks down—abnormal noises are often early warnings of potential failures.

[SimonLynn]

My car is used to pick up and drop off the kids to school, and it's really annoying to hear strange noises whenever it bumps. It might be the metal parts under the seats that have come loose—kids always jump around in the car, causing them to shake and make friction noises when going over bumps. Or maybe the stuff in the trunk isn’t secured properly and is hitting the inner walls of the car. There could also be issues with larger components, like aging parts in the chassis or tires that start creaking over time. I suggest checking for loose items when parked and emptying the trunk to see if that helps. If the noise persists, take it to a repair shop to have the suspension or screws checked—don’t try fixing it yourself. Safety is important; a small noise could turn into a big problem, like my neighbor’s car where ignored sounds led to brake failure. Driving slower and avoiding potholes can also reduce wear and tear.