Does your car feel bumpy while you drive? Herky-jerky motions are major red flags but they do happen more often than not. This usually comes down to a lack of maintenance or bad driving habits.
Your journey behind the wheel should be as smooth as possible so it’s important to know the “whats” and “whys” of your car’s condition. Here are common reasons for a bumpy car ride:
- Damaged Suspension
Car suspension issues are one of the most common causes for a bumpy ride. The suspension system is responsible for smoothing out bumps in the road. It provides traction by keeping the wheels on the ground as much as possible.
A damaged suspension system will feel unbalanced and unstable, causing bumpiness while you drive. Regular inspections and timely replacements can make a world of difference in restoring a smoother ride.
- Worn Tyres
Regularly inspect your car for uneven tyre wear and replace them when needed. Rotating your tyres can also distribute wear evenly, extending their lifespan and improving overall ride comfort.
There’s a fine line between your tyres and the road. Worn tyres won’t provide much cushioning between the road and your car, making the ride feel rougher than usual. Wear and tear is also inevitable as tyres are bound to degrade over time.
- Imbalance and Misaligned Wheels
Wheel balancing and alignment are not the same thing. One is often mistaken for the other but they do relate back to the same thing – your tyres! A lack of both can cause uneven wear and tear on your tyres, leading to a bumpy ride.
Car shaking at high speeds, steering wheel vibration and pulling to one side are signs of imbalance and misalignment. Ensure your wheels are property adjusted to avoid these problems.
- Brake Problems
The brakes are your car’s most important safety feature. Faulty brakes can cause your car to shake uncontrollably especially when you press them. It may also give off loud squealing noise every time you hit the brakes.
These are clear indications of brake problems and it is usually caused by long term use. Driving with faulty brakes is a major safety hazard and it’s important to get them checked immediately.
- Transmission Issues
A testy transmission can cause your car to act up in more ways than one. It’s one of the main causes of car rattles and uncontrollable shaking, leading to a bumpy ride. These vibrations may vary depending on how fast your vehicle is moving.
Strange noises, delay in shifting gears and a lack of responsiveness are other factors that indicate transmission issues. Remember to schedule regular fluid checks and timely maintenance to prevent this.
Simple Ways to Ensure a Smoother Drive
Regular maintenance is one thing, but ensuring a smooth drive also comes down to good driving habits and DIY checkups. Here simple yet effective ways to maintain a smooth ride:
- Choose the Right Tyres: Different tyres offer various characteristics. Ensure you select tyres suitable for your driving conditions and preferences. High-quality, well-maintained tyres with proper tread depth contribute to a smoother and safer ride.
- Basic/DIY Maintenance: Conducting regular basic checks can go a long way in ensuring a smoother drive. Perform simple tasks such as checking the oil level, brake fluid, and coolant levels regularly. Also, inspect the belts and hoses for any signs of wear or damage.
- Maintain a Balanced Load: Avoid overloading your vehicle and distribute weight evenly. An imbalanced load can strain your suspension system, leading to uneven tire wear and a rough ride.
- Avoid Aggressive Driving: Rapid acceleration, abrupt braking, and sharp turns can strain your car’s components. Adopt a calm driving style, anticipating stops and turns, to reduce stress on the suspension and promote a smoother ride.
- Keep Your Car Clean: Maintaining a clean exterior and interior is not just about aesthetics; it also contributes to a smoother driving experience. Regularly wash your car to remove dirt, debris, and corrosive materials that can affect your vehicle’s performance.
Conclusion
Don’t let a lack of maintenance or unethical habits get in the way of your driving. Everyone deserves to ride smoothly but not everyone is willing to put in the effort. At the end of the day, a smooth ride comes down to proper care and attention to your vehicle.
Contact us if you need to get your car checked or maintained.
