Signs Your Sprinter Van Has Suspension Troubles

Every driver understands that smooth rides are characteristic of well-maintained automobiles, but what if that smoothness starts to fade? Suspension problems in Sprinter vans may develop gradually, and what is supposed to be a comfortable ride becomes a rough and uncomfortable experience. Whether on a highway or city road, the suspension system in the van is an essential factor, as it determines the safety and comfort of the passengers. Identifying potential problems before they become serious can prevent expensive repair bills and hazardous conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Suspension Issues in Sprinter Vans

• Pulling to One Side While Driving: If your van veers to the right or left when you are driving straight, it could be an alignment or a suspension problem. A worn-out or damaged spring or shock can cause the vehicle to lean or pull to one side. Failure to address this problem results in poor tread wear on your tires. This makes it unsafe to drive your van at high speeds.
• Excessive Bouncing After Hitting a Bump: Another clear indication that the suspension is not working well is when the vehicle bounces too much after hitting a bump. If your Sprinter van continues to bounce several times after hitting a dip or bump in the road, it is time that you check your shocks or struts for replacement. These components assist in weight distribution, so if there is a problem with any of these components, you will notice that the van is uncomfortable and shaky.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Your suspension system has a direct impact on your tires, so it determines how evenly your tires wear down. If your suspension parts are misaligned in any way or your shocks are worn out, some areas of your tires will lose contact with the ground and this will result in more uneven wear.
• Clunking Sounds: If you experience strange clunking sounds while you are driving, especially over bumps or while turning, you may have suspension problems. This is normally a result of worn-out or damaged suspension parts, such as the control arms, bushings, or shocks. These noises should not be disregarded because they are signs of trouble with your van’s suspension system.
• Difficulty Steering: If you are struggling to maneuver your Sprinter van, then this could be another sign of suspension issues. Defective shocks and struts can make the steering feel unresponsive, which may lead to difficulty maneuvering the van. This problem is most experienced when driving during the rainy season or on frozen ground, for instance, during winter.
• Sagging or Uneven Ride Height: If one side of your van appears to be lower than the other side, you may have a broken spring or shock absorber. This can cause some uneven weight distribution in your vehicle, which will make the van difficult to control when steering. It can put a lot of pressure on the tires and other suspension systems. A sagging van can also result in low fuel consumption.

What to Do If You Suspect Suspension Problems

• Schedule a Professional Inspection: It is always advisable to have an expert auto mechanic check your suspension system. They will be in a position to determine the issue and what the needed repairs are, to ensure that your van is road-worthy again.
• Replace Worn Parts: If your mechanic tells you that you have worn or damaged suspension parts, you should replace them as soon as possible. This will help avoid any further damage and make your van ready for the road.

Trust The Experts At Sprinter Gurus With Your Sprinter Van Repairs

To ensure that your Sprinter van is providing you with smooth rides, you must have the suspension checked on a regular basis. At Sprinter Gurus, we are happy to be the go-to shop for Sprinter van repairs for drivers in Gwinnett County. Our garage is located in Norcross, GA, so if you live in the area, you can bring your vehicle to us. We are willing and able to bring your sprinter back to life to give you the best experience every time you are on the road. Schedule an appointment with us today!