Absolut Autoworks Blog

Your car’s suspension system is essential for providing a smooth and controlled ride. It absorbs shocks from the road and helps ensure stability while driving. When the suspension is compromised, it can affect your vehicle's performance and safety. At Absolut Autoworks, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Sterling, VA area. Here are five warning signs of a suspension problem. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps One of the most noticeable signs of suspension trouble is excessive bouncing when driving over bumps or potholes. Your suspension system is designed to absorb these impacts, but if components like shocks or struts are worn out, your car will struggle to stabilize. This results in a bumpy, uncomfortable ride. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that your tires are wearing unevenly, it could indicate a problem with your suspension system. A malfunctioning suspension can affect the distribution of weight across the tires, causing some areas to bear more pressure than others. Left unaddressed, uneven tire wear can lead to reduced traction and increased risk of blowouts. Pulling to One Side While Driving When your car pulls to one side, it might not just be an alignment issue. A damaged suspension system can also cause this problem by unevenly distributing weight. Pulling to one side compromises your control of the vehicle, making it crucial to have the issue inspected and repaired promptly. Clunking or Squeaking Noises Unusual noises coming from your car’s suspension system—such as clunking, squeaking, or creaking sounds—are often a sign of trouble. These noises can occur when components like bushings, ball joints, or control arms are failing. Ignoring these sounds may lead to further deterioration. Nose-Diving When Braking If your car’s front end dips significantly when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that your suspension system isn’t functioning correctly. This issue, often caused by worn shocks or struts, can reduce your stopping power and increase the risk of accidents. Prompt attention to this problem is important for maintaining safe braking performance. Suspension Repair in Sterling, VA When you need auto repair in Sterling, VA and the surrounding area, contact Absolut Autoworks at  703-437-1607  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s braking system is crucial for safe driving, so it’s important to keep it in top shape. Recognizing the signs of brake trouble early can save you from expensive repairs and help prevent potential accidents. At Absolut Autoworks, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Sterling, VA area. Here are five common signs of a brake problem. Squealing or Screeching Sounds If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes, it’s often an indication that the brake pads are wearing thin. Brake pads are designed with a small piece of metal that creates this sound as a warning signal. Ignoring this noise can lead to harsh metal-on-metal contact, which can damage the rotors and lead to more costly repairs. Grinding Noises Grinding noises usually mean the brake pads are completely worn out. When the pads have deteriorated to this point, there’s a good chance you’ll need to replace the rotors. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations when you apply the brakes, it could be due to warped rotors. Over time, rotors can become uneven due to heat generated by friction, especially if they’ve been exposed to heavy braking. This can affect your ability to brake smoothly, so have your brakes inspected if you notice these vibrations. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal When the brake pedal feels soft or goes to the floor with little resistance, it’s often a sign of a brake fluid leak or air in the brake lines. Brake fluid plays a critical role in creating the hydraulic pressure needed to stop your vehicle. If there’s a leak, or if air has entered the system, your brakes will lose responsiveness, making it difficult to stop the car effectively, and creating a major safety hazard. Warning Light on the Dashboard The brake warning light on your dashboard should never be ignored. This light may turn on for various reasons, such as low brake fluid or faulty wheel speed sensors. If you see this light, it’s best to get your brakes checked by the mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose the specific issue. Brake Repair in Sterling, VA When you need auto repair in Sterling, VA and the surrounding area, contact Absolut Autoworks at  703-437-1607  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!