Is your car leaning forward or to the side? Sagging could spell trouble for your beloved automobile, so you must address it and determine the cause. Here are six typical reasons why your vehicle is experiencing issues.
1. You Overloaded the Car
Imagine you work as a contractor and need to carry tools and machines in your van. Constantly loading the vehicle with heavy materials can overwhelm it and make it sag.
Help your vehicle by checking the owner’s manual for the payload capacity. For example, a Ford Ranger lets you load up to 1,200kg in the single-cab model. Loading more than the suspension’s maximum can compress springs and reduce the automobile’s ground clearance.
2. Rust Has Overtaken the Suspension
Rust is the silent killer of the automotive world, and it could be deadly to your suspension. While not a leading cause of sagging, it can wear the vehicle down and weaken essential structural components.
Corrosion forms on metal when exposed to water and air, so manufacturers cover it as much as possible. However, it could reach suspension parts and harm load-bearing areas like the shock absorbers and control arms. These pieces may succumb to rust and create a noticeable sag, making driving a dangerous situation.
3. The Suspension Is Bent
If suspension parts break, they could bend and deviate from their intended shape. Once deformed, they can alter your vehicle’s ride height and knock the wheels out of alignment.
A bent suspension can originate from a singular incident or impact over time. For example, consistently striking kerbs can bend the wheels and cause deformed steering knuckles. However, one pothole or a fallen tree limb can harm your vehicle and produce sagging.
4. The Springs Are Worn
If your vehicle starts sagging, you may have significantly worn springs on either side. These components balance the overall weight and may tilt the car once they start weakening.
Check the vehicle’s springs and the torsion bar to gauge where the problem lies. Your car constantly compresses these materials and creates metal fatigue, thus starting the sag. Over time, the springs lose their tension and are less able to withstand heavy loads.
5. Your Tyres Are Underinflated
Sometimes, the issue is simpler than you think. Underinflated tyres can create a sagging appearance and require service. While not the most common cause, it’s worth a look.
Sagging can occur if the tyres are severely underinflated compared to the others. Experts say the psi should be between 32 and 35 for most vehicles, though your owner’s manual will give you the best information. Your car could also drop if you accidentally bought differently sized tyres.
6. Modifications Weakened the Vehicle
While modifying your car is fun, these alterations could contribute to sagging. Incorrectly installed lift kits likely caused the dip, so safeguard the suspension as much as possible.
For example, you could have purchased incorrectly sized spring spacers or improperly installed the torsion bar. Other modifications causing sag may include heavy bumpers, roof racks or winches.
Stopping the Sag in Your Car
Vehicle sagging indicates underlying issues in the suspension and requires service. Drive your ride to a trusted and experienced mechanic to solve the problem or take matters into your own hands. Regardless, it’s essential to watch the weight of your loads and install lift kits properly.
