Why is the car lower on the left side and higher on the right side?
2 Answers
Possible reasons for the left side of the car body being lower are as follows: 1. Uneven tire pressure or uneven load on both sides of the vehicle: If the difference between the left and right sides of the car body is not significant, it may be caused by uneven tire pressure or uneven load distribution on both sides of the vehicle. 2. Issues with suspension components: If the difference is more severe, it may be due to problems with suspension components such as shock absorbers. 3. Shock absorber oil leakage: If the left side is lower, it may be due to oil leakage in the shock absorber. Methods to address the left-lower-right-higher issue: 1. Left-right imbalance caused by aging shock absorbers: In this case, it is best to replace the shock absorbers entirely. If the shock absorbers are relatively new, you can try replacing the shock absorber oil seals to prevent oil leakage. 2. Left-right imbalance caused by uneven tire pressure: This is the easiest to resolve. Simply check if the air pressure in all four tires is the same, then inflate the underinflated tire to restore normal balance. 3. Level difference caused by wheel rim deformation: Wheel rims may deform when subjected to significant impacts, which can affect the vehicle's balance. This issue can be resolved by repairing the deformed wheel rim or replacing it.
My old car had the same issue before, with the left side noticeably lower than the right by about a finger's width. This kind of leaning is most likely due to a problem with the suspension system. For example, the left shock absorber might be aging and leaking oil, losing its support and causing that side to sag. It could also be due to fatigued or deformed springs, or cracked bushings in the suspension arms, which compromise the frame's ability to bear weight. If you frequently have passengers only on the left side or consistently load heavy items in the left part of the trunk, over time the springs can't hold up. Also, make sure to check if the parking surface is truly level—some slopes appear flat but actually tilt slightly. This height difference isn't just unsightly; it can make the steering wheel pull at high speeds and cause instability when cornering, posing significant safety risks. I recommend taking it to a repair shop as soon as possible to have the car lifted and inspected—don't let a small issue turn into a big one.
