What signs might suggest that a vehicle's suspension is malfunctioning?

Excessive bouncing and swaying are clear indications of potential issues with a vehicle's suspension system. When the suspension is functioning properly, it helps maintain contact between the tires and the road, ensures a smooth ride, and provides stability during cornering and braking. If you observe excessive bouncing, it suggests that the shock absorbers or struts may be worn or damaged, leading to an inability to dampen road shocks effectively. Similarly, swaying indicates that the suspension system is not adequately controlling the vehicle’s weight distribution as it navigates turns or uneven surfaces. These symptoms can undermine vehicle control and safety, making it crucial to identify and address any suspension problems promptly.

In contrast, normal road noise typically does not indicate a suspension issue. A clean undercarriage might suggest proper maintenance but does not provide relevant insights about the suspension’s performance. Minimal tire wear could imply the tires are in good condition, but it does not directly reflect the state of the suspension system.