Ways to Detect Broken Rear Springs in Your VW From Certified Mechanics in Oakland

The springs are a part of the suspension system of your vehicle and attach directly to the frame. As a whole, the suspension system allows the driver to control the Volkswagen. It is essential to your comfort while operating the vehicle. The purpose of the springs is to absorb any shock that comes from uneven terrain or bumps in the road in order to reduce any jolting the vehicle and passengers may experience.

There are many different types of springs that your VW may be equipped with, although most vehicles have steel springs. Though the primary purpose of the springs is to absorb shock while the vehicle is in motion, they are always at work, even when the car is parked, because they are essential to supporting the weight of the vehicle body. That said, the springs are a component that are highly likely to breakdown over time due to constant stress. If you suspect there is an issue with your rear springs, here are some more definitive signs and symptoms as well as advice on where to go for help.

The information below is meant to be an aid to your understanding of your vehicle’s status so that you can make an informed decision on the urgency of necessary repairs, and to know whether or not it is safe to continue driving your vehicle. If you notice any of the symptoms described here, we urge you not to attempt a DIY repair or diagnosis on your own, but to contact a licensed professional as soon as possible.

Signs Your Rear Springs are Broken

Vehicle tilting

One of the biggest telltale signs that you may have a suspension issue in your VW is the appearance of your car leaning to one side. One of the purposes of the springs is to keep your vehicle balanced equally on all sides. If a spring has collapsed or is weakening, that side of the vehicle will begin to sink closer to the ground.

Uneven wearing of the tires

When your springs are broken, they are unable to absorb the shock of uneven terrain or bumps in the road as they are intended, which places a lot more stress on your tire and frame. Additionally, if there is an issue in the way the vehicle is balanced, the weight placed on your tires will also be uneven, and one tire may be subject to more weight than the other, leading to possible misalignment and accelerated wear on individual tires.

Rough driving

Again, because a broken spring is unable to fulfill its primary purpose, which is to reduce the effects of bumps and impacts while driving, you will surely begin to feel the effects as the driver. The drive will no longer be smooth. In fact, it might be anywhere from a little bumpy to quite jarring, depending on the road you’re driving on. Not only will you feel bumpiness or vibration, you may also experience your vehicle swaying during a drive. This is because the springs are unable to stabilize the vehicle as they normally would.

Bottoming out

This effect is one that can cause further damage if left unchecked for too long or with harsh driving habits. When your springs are wearing down or otherwise failing, the suspension has a lot more room to move around when the vehicle is driving over uneven terrain. One of the most common ways drivers experience their vehicle bottoming out is when they drive over a dip in the road. This can cause severe damage to the undercarriage and lead to further issues such as oil leaks and damage to the transmission.

Excessive noise while driving

When functioning normally, the springs and other suspension components should not produce much noise at all, if any. As they begin to wear, you may start to hear grinding or sharp popping noises from the metal components rubbing together, especially when you drive over large bumps or even tight corners.

Driving a Car With Broken Rear Springs

It is not advised that you continue to operate a vehicle that is known to have bad or broken rear springs if you are able to avoid it. This is because, as we just mentioned, doing so can expose your vehicle to further damages that may leave your vehicle inoperable. As soon as you know or strongly suspect there is an issue with your rear springs, you need to get your vehicle to an expert mechanic as soon as possible.

Visit Germany’s Best Inc. for Rear Springs Repair

As Oakland’s most trusted German Auto Center, Germany’s Best Inc. is eager to service your vehicle and return it to tip-top shape. We have over 25 years of experience, specializing in German imports. We offer excellent repairs at a fraction of the cost you would face at a dealership. Such a bargain is hard to find with European vehicles, so make sure to stop by one of our shops in Berkeley, Emeryville, Piedmont, or Oakland, CA for the best deal in town by trusted specialists.