What sound does a bad shock absorber top mount make?

[OHailey]

When the shock absorber top mount is damaged, it produces a metallic clanging or squeaking sound. The shock absorber is not designed to support the vehicle's weight but rather to dampen the oscillations from the spring's rebound after absorbing shocks and to absorb energy from road impacts. The spring's role is to cushion impacts by converting a single large energy impact into multiple smaller ones, while the shock absorber gradually reduces these smaller impacts. Symptoms of a damaged shock absorber top mount include: 1. Increased tire noise, with severe cases resulting in a roaring sound from the tires; 2. Reduced ride comfort; 3. Vehicle pulling to one side during straight-line driving, where the car cannot maintain a straight path despite the steering wheel being held at a constant angle; 4. Squeaking sounds when turning the steering wheel while stationary.