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Your Suspension Survival Check-List: Is Your Ride Road-Ready?

Kobi Meyer • February 1, 2025

Is your car feeling a little bumpy on the road? Or maybe it pulls to one side when you drive?

These are just a few signs that your suspension system might need attention. While many drivers overlook their suspension, it’s critical to your vehicle's handling, comfort, and—most importantly—safety.


A healthy suspension ensures a smooth, stable, and safe ride. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, our ASE-certified technicians are here to help Albany, CA, drivers maintain their suspension systems. Let’s walk through your suspension survival checklist to make sure your ride is road-ready!


1. Do You Feel Every Bump in the Road?

A rough, bumpy ride is one of the first signs of a suspension issue. If your car doesn’t absorb the shock from potholes or uneven pavement, your struts or shocks might be worn out.


Test your shocks by performing a "bounce test." Push down on the front or rear of your car. If it bounces more than 2-3 times, your shocks likely need replacing.


2. Is Your Car Pulling to One Side?

Does your vehicle drift to one side even when you’re driving on a straight road? This could be a sign of misaligned wheels, uneven tire wear, or worn suspension components like control arms or bushings. A car that pulls to one side is not only annoying but dangerous, especially during emergencies.


Bring your car to Dana Meyer Auto Care, where our team specializes in suspension and alignment services to get your car back on track.


3. Are Your Tires Wearing Unevenly?

Your suspension plays a huge role in how evenly your tires wear. If you notice bald spots or uneven tread, it’s a warning sign that your suspension isn’t holding the tires properly against the road. Uneven tires can lead to reduced traction and longer stopping distances, especially in wet weather.


During your visit, we’ll check your tires and suspension system to ensure your ride is road-ready.


4. Do You Hear Clunking, Squeaking, or Rattling Sounds?

Strange noises when driving over bumps or turning corners could indicate damaged suspension components, such as worn ball joints, bushings, or stabilizer links. Ignoring these noises can lead to further damage, increasing repair costs.


5. Does Your Car Nose-Dive When You Brake?

If your car dips forward dramatically when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. This issue can reduce your ability to stop quickly and safely.



At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we inspect and replace worn shocks and struts to keep you safe on the road.


Why Choose Dana Meyer Auto Care for Suspension Repairs?

At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we’ve been trusted by the Albany community since 1975. Our ASE-certified technicians use cutting-edge tools to diagnose and repair suspension issues, ensuring your vehicle drives smoothly and safely. With a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty, we stand behind every repair we perform.


Schedule Your Suspension Inspection Today!

Your suspension is key to a safe and comfortable ride. Whether you’re feeling every bump, hearing strange noises, or noticing uneven tire wear, don’t wait—let Dana Meyer Auto Care help. Visit us at 660 San Pablo Ave, Albany, CA, call us at (510) 292-4900, or learn more and book online at https://www.danameyerautocare.com/. Keep your ride road-ready with Dana Meyer Auto Care!


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