Suspension Problem?

[ArcticLeaf]

Hi,

Perhaps this is a silly question, but how do you know when you have a suspension problem? I feel like the car is bouncier when I drive it over uneven roads than it used to be. I keep asking my passengers, but they don't notice a difference. I'm beginning to think I'm crazy!

Also, a few months ago I heard something that sounded a bit like a spring breaking. And since then the ride has seemed worse than ever. Although, I'm not sure if it's just me being paranoid or what.

I plan on trying the bounce test tomorrow. I'll update with results.

Saturn Vue, V6, AWD, 132,000 miles

[vasy]

Unless you broke a sprint, just replace both rear shocks and see how it goes.
The job itself is very easy and parts are cheap. Bounce test is only a so-so test and mostly indicates a complete failure, it would be very hard to notice a 50% gone shock. You can only really tell once you remove the parts. Old shock will not even go back up once pushed down or do so very slllloooowwwwlllyyyyy, compare to the new.

[vasy]

Also check rear end links and sway bar bushings while you are at it.

[mlc5]

If something did break, I'd expect you'd still be hearing something going on over there.. at least during a hard turn, or on bumpy surface...

Having said that.. check under the rear.. the rear sway bar links are known to be problematic over time... Both of mine had snapped/sheered off, on my wife's car. . without her noticing. Most other components I would expect to make some type of noise after failure/breakage... (creaking, rumbling, squeaking, etc).

132K miles is just about when thing start wearing ...

the bounce test, as mentioned isn't the greatest.. but it should give you some insight if something did break, as you suggest..