noisy ride - should i do something about it?

[sixleggedinsect]

to my ear (i dont have a way to quantify it) the ride in my 93 wagon is noiser than it used to be a year ago. it sounds louder, less suspended, over bumps and potholes. i am lead to believe its old rubber bushings (they're all old and finely cracked, basically) in the suspension, or perhaps the strut/shocks are getting old. i havent really done too much inspection, partly becuase im not entirely sure waht to look for.

my question- is this a safety issue? the ride might be a little harsher, but i still hit potholes and speedbumps without anything exciting happening. the car feels stable. id rather not drop a couple hundred bucks on suspension parts if it will last another year as-is.

thoughts?

(continued thanks for the help on this forum)

anthony

[mlw35405]

It could be any number of things, from worn out bushings to worn ball joints. If the steering is still tight and you don't hit your head on the roof from bumps, I'd say you'd be o.k. I got over 300K miles on my escort and finally had to replace ball joints and tie rod ends, but have never replaced any bushings.

[jman63]

just in case you hadn't considered it, ya' may be surprised at how something as simple as new tires can improve the ride...it sure did on mine...a LOT less road noise...

[Graywing]

And don't forget that struts wont last forever. As they age they get firmer. I'd say a '93 was due for struts several years ago.

[PaulyHolley]

I'm unsure of your area and safety inspection criteria , but I always recommenend an annual safety inspection . The same one you needed to purchase plates for your vehicle . In my area (ONTARIO) a safety inspection is roughly $50 . This will help give annual piece of mind for safety sake . As for noise complaints it could be a variety of things so ask the technichian for reccomendations this should be free as they are hoping to sell you parts\labour and gain a regular customer .

GOOD LUCK :

[PaulyHolley]

The reason I've recommeneded a safety inspection is a repair shop usually has a minimum 1 hour shop rate and they inspect the complaint stated . A safety inspection is for them to assess the entire vehicle not only your complaint . 1 hour shop rate is most likely more than a saftey inspetion . Safety First Comfort Second.