The Effects of Winter on Suspension Systems

Suspension systems are the things that make a car ride comfortable. If you are planning to
do any traveling by car during the winter, you want to make sure that your suspension
system is in optimal condition. One way to control your repair bills is to regularly maintain
your car. General car maintenance performed diligently will help keep your repair costs
under control by serving as a monitoring system on your systems. Maintenance will keep
you alerted to any potential problems so that they can be addressed as soon as possible.

The Details of Suspension Systems

The suspension system is the system that makes a ride in the car stable and comfortable. It
provides a damper for the bumps, lumps of the pavement, and helps improve handling and
steering so you can maintain control of the car. It provides protection from the jolts and
jounces that is felt from traveling over the imperfections of the road. The shock absorbers
and springs are the parts that help absorb the bumps and imperfections of the road and
provide a comfortable ride. This system also provides greater stability for steering, which
makes it easier to handle the car in a safe manner. This is particularly important in the
winter when you are driving over snow- or ice-covered roads. A good suspension system
coupled with winter tires will provide more stable handling in the winter.

The Bad Effects of Old Man Winter

The suspension system is especially vulnerable to the hazards of winter driving and the
elements because it is located underneath the car. If water is introduced into this system
while the car is sitting in high water at the curb or trying to traverse flooded streets, debris
and grease can contaminate it. Potholes, the bane of city driving, occur from the water
eroding the soil underneath pavement as it freezes and thaws. This freeze-thaw cycle
produces cracks that can cause potentially expensive car damage. If you speed and hit a
pothole, the system receives a violent pulse. Over time, those repeated violent pulses will
weaken the structure of the struts and springs. The car will begin pulling to one side while
driving. The ride on a damaged suspension system is rough and the steering and handling
becomes vague. This can create a dangerous driving situation.

Avoiding Problems that Can Occur in Winter

Problems with the steering and suspension can be avoided by having a thorough bumper-to-
bumper inspection performed on your car. Have your suspension inspected when you have
your winter safety inspection done. Fluid checks, oil changes, and brake pad changes should
not be the only focus when winter comes. Your local ASE master technician will be able to
advise you what needs to be repaired or replaced from having your bumper-to-bumper
inspection. Your safety should be of utmost importance and proper maintenance will ensure
that you will save money on car repairs and remain safe on the winter roads.