Why does the vehicle make a creaking sound when passing over speed bumps?
2 Answers
The reasons for the creaking sound when a vehicle passes over speed bumps: 1. Disc brake failure: The brake shoe support plate, vibration damping spring plate, or guide plate of the disc brake is damaged or detached, increasing the gap between the brake shoe and the brake caliper support frame in all directions, causing them to collide and produce noise; 2. Front suspension ball joint failure: The gap between the ball joint and the ball joint seat becomes larger, leading to severe looseness and noise; 3. Front wheel shock absorber failure: Frequent driving on poor roads and improper maintenance cause the shock absorber to leak oil and become damaged; 4. Driveshaft universal joint failure: Lack of lubrication or untimely maintenance leads to noise.
I often hear this squeaking sound while driving, especially when going over speed bumps. It feels like rubber friction noise. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, the mechanic said the suspension bushings had aged. These bushings are rubber-made components underneath the chassis. Over time, they harden, crack, or loosen, causing metal parts to rub against each other and produce noise when going over bumps. If ignored, the sound may get worse and even affect handling safety. For example, my car, which has been driven for over five years, is prone to such issues due to poor road conditions. It's advisable to regularly inspect the suspension system. Another common cause is worn shock absorbers—if they have compression or rebound issues when going over speed bumps, they can also produce squeaking noises. Some car enthusiasts mention that loose steering linkage can create similar sounds. In short, don’t overlook these minor noises. Addressing them early ensures a safer and more worry-free drive—don’t wait until something breaks like I did.