When summer hits, most drivers focus on their car’s air conditioning or cooling system—but your suspension system also takes a beating when the temperatures rise. The combination of scorching pavement, longer road trips, and sun-baked potholes can push your shocks, struts, and other suspension parts to their limit. Here’s what you need to know to keep your suspension system in peak shape all summer long.
Why Summer Is Hard on Your Suspension
Summer might seem like an easier season for your vehicle, but it can be surprisingly tough on suspension components. The added heat can cause bushings and rubber parts to dry out and crack. Plus, if you’re hauling more gear, towing a trailer, or going on long road trips, your suspension system has to work overtime to keep things stable.
Heat can also expand and degrade lubricants inside shocks and struts, causing them to wear down faster. And if you’ve been dealing with potholes left over from winter or gravel roads on summer adventures, that rough terrain only adds to the strain.
Keep an Eye (and Ear) Out for Trouble
One of the best ways to protect your suspension is to recognize early warning signs of wear. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Look out for:
- A bouncy or swaying ride
- Nose-diving when braking
- Excessive body roll in turns
- Uneven tire wear
- Clunking or squeaking sounds from under the car
- A crooked steering wheel or pulling to one side
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time for an inspection. Catching minor suspension problems early can help you avoid bigger (and more expensive) repairs down the road.
Check Your Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts are the heart of your suspension system. They keep your tires in contact with the road and absorb impacts from bumps and dips. During the summer, these components can leak fluid or lose their damping ability. A quick bounce test can give you a clue—press down firmly on the front or rear of your vehicle and release. If it bounces more than once or twice, your shocks may be worn.
Don’t Forget About the Ball Joints and Bushings
Rubber components like bushings and ball joint boots are especially vulnerable to high heat. Over time, they can crack, split, or lose their flexibility. That leads to more metal-on-metal contact, which speeds up wear and creates extra play in your suspension. If your steering feels loose or you hear knocking sounds, worn bushings could be the culprit.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Tire pressure plays a big role in your suspension’s effectiveness. Underinflated tires can create extra drag and stress on suspension parts, while overinflated ones reduce ride comfort and control. Tire pressure rises with heat, so check your PSI in the early morning when tires are cool. Adjust as needed based on the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually found on the driver’s door sticker).
Get a Wheel Alignment Check
Hot weather and rough roads can throw your wheels out of alignment. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear and force your suspension to compensate, which leads to early part failure. If your steering wheel isn’t centered, your car drifts left or right, or your tires are wearing unevenly, an alignment might be in order.
Watch Your Load
Summer often means road trips, vacations, or hauling outdoor gear. But overloading your car can max out your suspension’s capacity. Excess weight increases pressure on springs, shocks, and tires. If you’re carrying a full load, make sure your suspension is up to the task—and avoid exceeding your vehicle’s weight limit.
Keep It Clean and Inspected
Dust, grime, and road salt (if leftover from spring runoff) can speed up corrosion on suspension components. Give your undercarriage a good rinse every few weeks, especially if you’ve been driving on dirt or gravel roads. While you’re at it, visually inspect your suspension for any obvious damage, leaks, or rust.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
The best way to keep your suspension healthy in the summer is with regular maintenance. Ask your mechanic to check:
- Shocks and struts
- Control arms and bushings
- Ball joints and tie rods
- Sway bar links
- Wheel alignment and tire condition
Even if your ride still feels smooth, these parts may be wearing down slowly—and staying ahead of the curve can save you from roadside breakdowns or expensive repairs later.
Stay Safe and Comfortable All Season Long
Your suspension system does more than smooth out bumps—it plays a huge role in steering, stability, and safety. Keeping it in top shape during summer means better handling, reduced tire wear, and a more comfortable ride for everyone in the car.
If your ride feels rough, your tires are wearing funny, or you just want peace of mind before your next road trip, don’t wait. Have your suspension inspected and serviced by a professional, and enjoy the road ahead without any surprises.