Why Does the New Car's Shock Absorber Make Noise?
2 Answers
New car shock absorber noise may be normal sounds, or due to reasons like loose shock absorber mounting. Normal noise situations: Due to its structural characteristics, the shock absorber gets compressed when passing over bumpy roads, thereby compressing the external spring; after the car passes the bumpy section, the spring's elasticity will return the shock absorber to its original position. The entire process of shock absorber compression and resetting is accompanied by exhaust and air release sounds. Most commonly it's a "hissing" sound, similar to the sound of barber chair hydraulics. So if you hear such sounds on bumpy roads, don't worry - it's normal. Loose shock absorber mounting: Prolonged compression vibrations during driving may cause the shock absorber mounting nuts to loosen, creating noise. In this case, simply retighten the mounting nuts; The most direct method is listening - at low speeds, when tires pass over raised surfaces, there will be slight vibration sounds that appear quite muffled.
I just picked up my new car and the suspension squeaks when going over speed bumps. I specifically asked the technician at the 4S店 about it. It’s quite common for new cars to have suspension noises, mainly due to a few reasons: First, the hydraulic oil in the shock absorbers needs some breaking in, and it will quiet down after a few hundred kilometers. Second, the rubber bushings haven’t fully softened yet, which is especially noticeable in winter—cars parked in underground garages fare much better. Third, the dust cover might have been squeezed and deformed during assembly, and you can check for wrinkles yourself. However, pay attention to the sound characteristics: a rustling noise like crumpling a plastic bag isn’t urgent, but if it’s a metallic clanging sound, you should get it checked immediately. Remember to slow down on bumpy roads and avoid letting the shock absorbers compress fully—this is especially important during the break-in period of a new car.