Can You Drive A Car With Broken Suspension?

By Slyng Team

Updated Feb 18, 2024

In Learn Feb, 2024

What happens if your car suspension is bad? Can you drive a car with broken suspension parts? We are going to answer these two main questions in this blog post.

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    Drivers need to be aware of what is going on with their car to take the necessary precautions. A broken suspension and a broken spring on the car can cause your car to swerve or even flip over. So, you must know how to handle this situation.

    In this post, we will discuss the purpose of a suspension. We will also discuss how it works and what you should do if you have a broken suspension and a broken shock absorber.

    We will also provide some safety tips for drivers who are dealing with a broken suspension. Read on!

    What Is a Car Suspension?

    A car's suspension consists of springs, shock absorbers, and struts. These features all work together to absorb bumps in the road while keeping all four wheels on solid ground at all times. In addition, the suspension system supports your car's body and provides stability.

    The suspension also contributes to handling performance by allowing changes in direction. It does so without excessive force applied directly onto wheels or axles (which would cause them to skid sideways).

    The springs and dampers (also called shock absorbers) of your car work together through leverage action. They also produce friction forces generated within their cylinders when compressed with fluid inside them. Thus, the process provides springiness for riding comfort while reducing bounce during driving conditions. These conditions include braking and stopping maneuvers at traffic lights, potentially affecting steering.

    How Do Suspensions Work?

    As we have mentioned before, your car's suspension system has two main components. They are called springs and dampers, also known as shock absorbers. These parts work together to provide stability and absorb the shock from bumps in the road.

    The damper slows down the spring's oscillation when you hit a bump. This process prevents the force of the impact from being transmitted through the car's body to the passengers.

    If your suspension is broken, it is vital to take precautions and determine broken steering linkage factors while driving. It would be best if you avoided sharp turns or sudden braking, as this could cause your car to swerve or flip over. And if you are unable to drive safely, you should find a safe place to park your car until it can be fixed.

    What Happens When the Suspension Breaks?

    If one of the main components of your car's suspension system breaks, it can cause many problems which may turn into failed power steering in the long run. Your car will be much harder to control (and in some instances, you will eventually lose control). It will be more difficult to make turns, and you may experience a great deal of swaying. In addition, your car could flip over if you hit a bump or pothole while driving.

    It is crucial to remember that even if one component of your suspension is broken, you should not drive your car. If you do choose to drive it, you are putting yourself and everyone else on the road at risk. And if you get into an accident because of a broken suspension, you could be held liable.

    Can You Drive a Car with Broken Suspension
    Photo Credit: European Service Center

    Can You Drive With A Broken Suspension?

    In short, no. You can, but you should not drive your car if one of the main components of its suspension system is broken.

    With a broken shock absorber, you are unable to drive safely. Quickly find a safe place to park your car. Then, fix it yourself or call help. Taking precautions like this could save your life and the lives of others on the road.

    However, sometimes there are emergency cases. And if you do choose to drive, you have to be very careful, so you are not putting yourself and everyone else on the road at risk. For example, a broken suspension can cause your car to swerve or even flip over, so you must know how to handle this situation.

    What Are The Signs Your Car Needs A New Suspension?

    If you are experiencing any of the following problems, it may be time to replace your car's suspension:

    Your Car Is Swaying Or Bouncing More Than Usual

    Driving feels unstable and wobbly. You can't make turns as effortlessly as you usually do.

    You Hit A Lot Of Bumps In The Road

    A shock absorber that functions well can lessen the effect of bumps in the road. If you keep jumping on your seat every time you hit bumps in the road, you might need a new suspension system.

    Clunking Noises

    If your car's steering system makes clunking noises whenever it hits a bump, you might want to check your suspension. Something may be off like a broken strut or perhaps a damaged or collapsed spring.

    Your Ride Is Uncomfortable

    Ask your passengers if they feel uncomfortable, too. Also, check on your tires. If they are okay, the problem might be with your suspension.

    If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is essential to have your suspension checked by a mechanic. A broken suspension can be dangerous, so it is best to take care of it as soon as possible.

    Can You Drive a Car with Broken Suspension
    Photo Credit: Arnold Clark

    Safety Tips For Drivers With Broken Suspensions!

    If your car has a broken suspension, there are a few things you can do to stay safe. Here are some safety tips for drivers who are dealing with a broken suspension:

    Avoid Sharp Turns And Sudden Braking Maneuvers

    Sharp turns and sudden braking maneuvers could cause your car to swerve or flip over. So, it is essential to look for damaged steering linkage to prevent further damage.

    Avoid Any Bumps Or Potholes In The Road

    This is extremely important if you have a damaged anti-roll bar due to wear and tear. If you can't avoid them, slow down, so you don't hit them too hard.

    Try To Keep Your Car In The Middle Of The Lane

    This will help you maintain control of your car starts to swerve.

    Park Your Car

    If you can't drive safely, find a safe place to park your car until it can be fixed.

    Have An Emergency Kit

    Ensure you have an emergency kit in your car in case of accidents or breakdowns.

    Stay Focused And Alert All The Time

    Keep a close eye on the road and make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times.

    Drive Slowly And Carefully

    Be patient and give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going.

    Remember that it is always better to be safe than sorry. If your suspension is broken, do not drive your car. Instead, take it to a mechanic and have them fix it before hitting the road again. Suspension repair is not an expensive procedure, so there is no reason to take any risks.

    Where To Go When You Have A Broken Suspension?

    It is always better to be safe than sorry. If you're experiencing any issue with your vehicle, then most likely, what has happened was that one of these components broke down and requires repair.

    Do not drive your car if your suspension is broken. Once again, take it to a mechanic and have them fix your car suspension before starting driving again. Suspension repair is not an expensive procedure, so there is no reason to take any risks.

    Need to replace your car suspension? Visit Road Cartel to check out car suspension products. You are also welcome to consult with us. We are more than happy to help you with your broken suspension problems!