Mercedes Suspension
Your Mercedes is known for superior handling, comfort and build quality. Over time, Mercedes has grown an incredible reputation for being one of the best car makers out there. But, just like any other brand, Mercedes vehicles can have issues, especially when it comes to suspension.
Are you hearing unusual noises coming from your Mercedes suspension? It’s understandable as the suspension is responsible for smooth handling and comfort. Being under so much strain, your suspension is prone to wear out over time.
Could you replace the suspension parts yourself? In this guide, we uncover the reasons why your suspension may be making unusual noises and see if it is possible to fix it yourself, or when it’s best to seek professional help.
At SB Autocare, we are experts when it comes to Mercedes suspension systems. Customers rely on our experience to diagnose and fix their suspension systems. We help serve the local area by getting our client’s cars back on the road quickly!
Keep reading to find out more about your Mercedes suspension.
Common Mercedes Suspension Noises – What do they mean?
Your suspension system is carefully designed to keep your Mercedes handling smoothly, by ironing out bumps and ensuring tyres stay connected on the road. All of this maintains driving comfort for occupants and keeps you safe on the road.
Suspension systems usually contain a coil spring and shock absorber. You’ll find many different designs out there, and each design is intended to reduce bouncing and keep your handling in control at all times.
The noises coming from your suspension can appear from many different sources. Lower control arms and bushings can emit unusual sounds as they connect to the vehicle chassis and break down over time.
Other possible suspension noises and their cause are outlined below:
- Control arm bushings: When the bushings in the control arms are dry or cracked, they might make knocking sounds while you’re driving.
- Tie rod ends: If the tie rod ends are worn out, you might hear squeaks or clunks when you turn the steering wheel.
- Anti-roll bars: If the rubber bushings in the anti-roll bars are broken, you could experience knocking sounds, especially when going over bumps.
- Track rod arms: In older cars, track rod arms might squeak, but this isn’t as common in newer vehicles.
- Shocks: If there are issues with the upper shock mounts, you might feel vibrations, hear thumping noises, and encounter resistance when you turn.
- Coil Springs and Spring seats: Worn or missing rubber seats, especially in vehicles with shock absorber systems, can cause clunking noises in the coil springs.
Now you know the major suspension components in your Mercedes, you have a better understanding of where the noises may be coming from. If you are still unsure, don’t panic, reach out to our Mercedes experts at SB Autocare today for help.
Main Causes of Suspension Failure in Your Mercedes
The main reasons why your Mercedes is making rattling noises are outlined below:
Typical wear and tear
Suspension components are constantly working to keep you comfortable and safe. Over time, they simply wear out and items like the control arms, bushings and ball joints may need replacing after a few years or when you hit a pothole. The lifespan of your Mercedes suspension is dependent on driving conditions and the distance you drive.
Damage and Misuse
Sometimes you drive on uneven surfaces and hit potholes or kerbs, anything like this could cause damage to components. Rough roads cause ball studs and bearings to wear down as a result of high friction. Racing on a track and off-roading in a normal road car can also cause suspension components to fail.
Corrosion
Since your suspension is made of steel, there’s always a chance it could get damaged by corrosion and rust when it’s out in the open. It’s crucial to swap out suspension parts if you notice corrosion or rust.
Crashes
Following an accident, it’s vital to examine the state of the steering and suspension parts. Control arms might bend, and damaged shock absorbers and springs can cause them not to function properly
Towing
If your Mercedes frequently pulls a heavy load, it puts more strain on the whole vehicle, especially the suspension parts. Make sure the towbar is installed correctly and that you’re towing trailers and loads suitable for your vehicle.
If you feel you drive under these circumstances or notice noises coming from your suspension system don’t leave it to chance. Our team of Mercedes specialists at SB Autocare are on hand to assist with suspension issues in your vehicle and get your car fixed in no time!
How To Prevent Mercedes Suspension Issues
Just like any other serviceable part, your Mercedes suspension needs to be inspected and maintained appropriately. To reduce the chances of suspension failure you can follow these tips:
- Regularly inspect and fine-tune tyre pressures every month or after covering 1,000 miles.
- During each service, examine the power steering fluid if applicable.
- Rotate the tyres every 6,000-10,000 miles.
- After encountering a substantial bump or pothole (or every 10,000 miles), have a garage align the wheels.
- Perform a visual examination of suspension components after driving 15,000 miles.
- Refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific suspension maintenance guidelines.
At SB Autocare, we inspect and fix our customers’ suspensions no matter which model you drive. With extensive knowledge of all Mercedes vehicles, you know that your car will be treated in the best possible way. Call or visit us today to book your appointment!
SB Autocare and Mercedes Suspension Fixes
It can be worrying when you notice unusual noises coming from your suspension. To avoid expensive repair bills later down the line, and for peace of mind be sure to reach out to our team of specialists at SB Autocare for help.
If you try to fix the suspension issue yourself, you could end up doing more harm, as suspension systems are complicated.
Our team is ready to quickly diagnose and fix any suspension issue. From minor to major repairs, we have the skills and experience to put your car back on the road.
If you notice unusual sounds, or simply need a safety inspection or suspension service, be sure to reach out to SB Autocare today. We are your local Mercedes experts!
