What Causes the Squeaking Noise from Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
The reasons for the squeaking noise from car shock absorbers are: 1. Loose shock absorber mounting. Long-term vibrations during driving can cause the mounting nuts to loosen, leading to noise from the shock absorbers. Solution: Tighten the mounting nuts. 2. Lack of oil in the shock absorber can also cause noise. Check for oil leaks in the shock absorber. If there is a leak, it is recommended to replace the shock absorber directly. If there is no leak, other components of the shock absorber system need to be inspected. 3. Wear and tear of the rubber bushings at both ends of the shock absorber can create gaps at the mounting points, causing noise during driving. Replace the rubber bushings. 4. Deformation of the shock absorber piston rod, cylinder tube, or oil reservoir, or sticking of the piston rod can cause noise and lead to shock absorber failure, even posing safety risks. Repair is not recommended (as it is very complicated), and replacing the shock absorber is advised.
My car's shock absorber is making a creaking noise, which is a common issue I've encountered several times. Last month, when driving over speed bumps, the sound was particularly noticeable. After inspection, it turned out the shock absorber was leaking oil. Oil leakage leads to insufficient internal lubrication, increased friction, and thus abnormal noises. Other possible causes include aging or deformation of the rubber bushings on the shock absorber—over time, they can dry out and crack or fail. Loose or worn springs can also cause noise when their support weakens. Sometimes, connecting components like bolts becoming loose or rusty can produce similar sounds. Shock absorbers are more prone to problems if they've been in use for over five years or if the car frequently travels on rough roads. At the time, I did a simple check by shaking the wheel to see the extent of movement, but I still took it to a repair shop for a thorough inspection and replaced the shock absorber. Ignoring it can accelerate wear and even affect braking safety, so it's advisable not to delay and to have a professional mechanic handle it. Regular checks on these components are crucial, especially for older cars—proper maintenance saves both hassle and money in the long run.
