What Causes the Squeaking Sound When Going Over Speed Bumps?
2 Answers
There are several main reasons why a car makes a squeaking sound when going over speed bumps: 1. Aging of the stabilizer bar link ball joint: After prolonged use, the stabilizer bar link ball joint may age, causing a squeaking sound when passing over speed bumps. If you notice abnormal noises when driving over speed bumps, check if the stabilizer bar link ball joint has aged and replace it promptly if necessary. 2. Excessive clearance in the steering tie rod ball joint: Excessive clearance in the steering tie rod ball joint can also cause a squeaking sound when going over speed bumps. You can lift the vehicle and shake the wheels forcefully from side to side to check for abnormal clearance. A properly functioning tie rod ball joint should not move. 3. Damage to the cushioning components on the chassis: Damage to the cushioning components on the chassis can result in abnormal noises when passing over speed bumps. This may be caused by issues with the rubber cushioning blocks on the stabilizer bar, which is another common reason for vehicle noise when going over speed bumps.
I often encounter this issue when driving an old car: it creaks and squeaks over speed bumps, as if something is rubbing. This is mainly related to the suspension system, such as aging or cracked rubber bushings in the shock absorbers. Because speed bumps create strong vibrations, the gaps in old components widen, causing metal parts to rub against each other and produce noise. Another possibility is loose connection points in the control arm. I ignored it once before, and the result was instability when turning, with the car feeling wobbly. The inspection method is simple: park on a flat road, get out, and kick the tire—if it makes a clunking sound, it indicates a suspension issue. But for safety, it's best to go directly to a repair shop and have the car lifted to inspect the chassis components. Don’t delay small problems, or the noise will only get worse, and wet, slippery roads in rainy weather increase the risk of losing control. New cars rarely have this issue, but old car owners understand this frustration. Regular suspension maintenance is key, especially after the vehicle has been used for several years.
