5 Cars with the Worst Suspension Systems (And Expensive Fixes)
Your vehicle’s suspension system plays an important role in your car’s overall safety. It also impacts your car’s ride comfort and handling. Unfortunately, there are some cars on the market that have become well-known for their downright awful suspensions. If you’re considering buying any of these five vehicles, you might want to reconsider or, at the very least, get familiar with the complaints about their suspension.
1. Jeep Wrangler
I’d never recommend a Jeep, in general. While the Wrangler is known for being a good off-roader, many people have complained about suspension problems. Its solid-axle suspension makes the ride stiff and uncomfortable on regular roads. Other common complaints include bump steer, excessive body roll, and an overall jittery driving experience. If you take it on the highway, be ready for the entire car to shake, which is frequently referred to as the “death wobble” by Jeep owners. Repairing this issue can be costly. Replacement control arms and track bars can cost $1,000+.
2. GMC SUVs and Trucks
GMC trucks and SUVs, such as the Yukon and Sierra, are built for power but often suffer from weak suspension systems. Many models come equipped with GM’s Magnetic Ride Control, which is smooth when working but costly when it fails. Air suspension components frequently leak or fail, leading to sagging and poor ride quality. Owners have reported that replacing air shocks and compressors can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000.
3. Ford Ranger 4×4
The Ford Ranger 4×4 is a durable pickup, but its suspension system is not designed for smooth city driving. The leaf-spring rear suspension makes the ride extremely stiff, especially when the truck bed is empty. Many owners complain about excessive bouncing and a harsh ride on uneven roads. The front suspension components, including control arms and bushings, tend to wear out quickly under heavy use. Replacing these parts can cost over $1,200, making routine maintenance expensive.
4. Nissan Note/Versa
The Nissan Note (known as the Versa in the U.S.) is an affordable compact car, but its suspension leaves much to be desired. The rear torsion beam setup provides minimal shock absorption, leading to a bumpy ride. Many owners report excessive body roll when cornering and poor stability on highways. Suspension components like struts and control arms tend to wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacements. Fixing suspension problems on the Versa may not seem expensive at first, but costs can add up to over $1,000 due to recurring issues.
5. Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux is known for its reliability, but its suspension system is not one of its strong points. Designed primarily for off-road and heavy-duty use, the rear leaf-spring setup results in an extremely stiff ride. Drivers often experience a rough, uncomfortable ride, especially when the truck is unloaded. The suspension can also become noisy, with squeaks and rattles developing over time. Replacing the leaf springs and shock absorbers can cost between $1,500 and $2,500, making maintenance expensive.
Beware of Suspension Costs
Suspension problems can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can impact the safety of your car and even lead to some seriously expensive repairs. Some vehicles simply don’t have a suspension that is suitable for everyday use. So, before you buy, make sure you research any known suspension issues (and any other common problems). This will help you know what to look out for.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.