Mercedes are well known for their innovations in suspension design. This allows Mercedes drivers to feel as though they are in perfect harmony with their vehicle, making driving tranquil and enjoyable like never before. However, such a peaceful scenario can be completely ruined by suspension noises. Squeaks, thumps, and screeches can all turn hitting the road into a trauma instead of the nirvana Mercedes intended. In this article, we will look at why noises occur in your rear suspension, how to identify them, and where to go for expert help in repairs.

A Closer Look at your Suspension

The purpose of your suspension is to ensure you feel as little of the bumps and lumps of a road surface as possible, as well as to increase the overall safety and handling of your vehicle. A poor suspension can make driving almost unbearable and can leave passengers complaining of sore backs and rattled bones. Therefore, the overall feel and driving experience your Mercedes can offer you is indelibly linked to the status of its suspension. Put simply, a perfectly-performing suspension will absorb shocks and bumps from the imperfections of the road surface as your vehicle glides over the road, preventing the driver from feeling as many road imperfections as possible.

There are many different types of suspension with alterations made for different purposes, but in general, all will feature the same three parts in their construction:

1. Springs

Springs in modern cars are made of steel and are designed to reflexively expand and contract in response to dips and bumps in the road. This movement helps keep the wheels parallel to the road surface, which prevents the driver from feeling a terrain change.

2. Shock Absorbers

As the springs move and take on the kinetic energy from the road, the shock absorbers work to dampen the shock. They do this by breaking down the excess energy and converting it into heat.

3. Anti-Roll Bars

The anti-roll bars are the suspension’s main safety feature. They are designed to add stability to the vehicle and allow for better weight distribution. This helps make cornering much safer, as it greatly reduces the risk of a vehicle rolling over on a tight corner.

Five-Link Rear Suspension

The rear suspension of your Mercedes can typically be described as a five-link rear suspension. This means that your suspension has five arms which are known as links. The links are what supports the suspension, and help to smooth out and absorb the shocks caused by the road surface. They also make the suspension feel more tight and controlled.

What Causes Rear Suspension Noise?

1. Poor Lubrication

The number one reason why rear suspension noise is heard is because of a lack of lubrication. Your suspension is packed with moving parts, which all need to be well-oiled to prevent grinding and the damage that occurs because of this. This grinding is also what makes the noise you’re hearing.

2. Worn-out Ball Joints

If the noise that you are hearing largely occurs when making corners, then you’re probably dealing with a ball-joint issue. Ball joints are what connects the wheels to the suspension, and they pivot to allow a range of motion. If these joints become ineffective or warped, not only will turning become less smooth, but screeching or squealing noises will be heard.

3. Damaged Suspension Bushing

Bushing is what cushions your suspension joints. Bushing is made from rubber, which is designed to help absorb any residual vibrations from the suspension as well as to help keep any noise down. However, if this bushing becomes old, then the joints will be less cushioned and more noises are likely to be heard.

Das European Autohaus

Das European Autohaus have been helping the residents of Spring and Houston, TX for many years. We are experts in German-made cars and have a passion for all things motoring. We are the number one repair shop in our area and are also Bosch certified. We always put the customer first. Because of this, we are well known for our reliable and affordable repairs, which have earned us regular, 5-star reviews from our customers. So if your suspension is screaming at you, call Das European Autohaus today.