How to Check a Used Car's Suspension and Steering
Practical checks for suspension and steering wear that are easy to miss on a casual test drive.
3 min read · Updated 14 Oct 2026
Key Takeaways
- Push down firmly on each corner of the car and release
- Clunking, knocking or creaking noises over speed bumps or uneven road during the test drive often point to worn suspension bushings or links — components that are inexpensive individually but add up if several need replacing at once
- The steering should respond promptly with minimal free play before the wheels start turning
Worn suspension and steering components affect both ride quality and safety, and are often overlooked in a quick viewing.
On This Page
1. The Bounce Test
Push down firmly on each corner of the car and release. A healthy suspension settles back to its resting position within one or two bounces — continued bouncing suggests worn shock absorbers.
2. Listen Over Bumps
Clunking, knocking or creaking noises over speed bumps or uneven road during the test drive often point to worn suspension bushings or links — components that are inexpensive individually but add up if several need replacing at once.
3. Steering Feel and Play
The steering should respond promptly with minimal free play before the wheels start turning. Excessive play, or the car pulling to one side on a flat, straight road, both warrant a closer mechanical check before you buy.
4. Uneven Tyre Wear as a Clue
Uneven wear across a tyre's width (more worn on one edge) can indicate wheel alignment or suspension geometry issues, not just tyre age — worth checking all four tyres, not just the ones that look obviously worn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are suspension repairs usually expensive?
Individual components like bushings are relatively inexpensive, but labour and multiple worn parts together can add up — worth factoring into your offer if issues are found.
Does a smooth-feeling test drive guarantee healthy suspension?
Not entirely — some wear only shows clearly over bumps or during harder cornering, which a short, gentle test drive may not reveal.
Is power steering fluid worth checking?
Yes, for cars with hydraulic power steering — low or dirty fluid can indicate a leak or overdue maintenance.