What does a coil spring do?

Also known as road springs or suspension springs, coil springs support your car at its desired height, to maintain proper alignment angles and to absorb road shock transmitted through the tires and shock absorbers. Most cars have four coil springs; each supporting one corner of the vehicle.

Coil springs are made of strengthened steel, expertly designed to give both stiffness and absorption to ensure they can do their job. Coil springs need to hold the weight of the vehicle up but at the same time not be so stiff that they can’t absorb shocks, resulting in your car being jolted from every bump in the road.

There are two types of coil springs - the first have a constant diameter steel all the way down the coil and the second type have a decreasing diameter which allows for more absorption and comfort and more strength under heavy loads.

How often does a coil spring need replacing?

Whilst there is no set lifespan for a coil spring, as they get older, their strength decreases and therefore their ability to absorb uneven surfaces and keep the wheels in contact with the road surface is reduced.

Poor road conditions and heavier cars can result in coil springs needing to be replaced more frequently as there is more stress and strain on these springs. Coil springs also tend to break more frequently if the vehicle is left stationary for long periods of time and can corrode if left in wet conditions.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

Your car’s suspension system, including your coil springs should be inspected during an MOT. Coil springs may cause your car to fail its MOT if they are badly fractured, severely weakened, dangerously modified, insecurely attached to the chassis, or missing.

To ensure that your car remains roadworthy, safe and drivable you should be aware of the symptoms of bad coil springs and have them checked regularly.

What happens when we do a coil spring replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the car and inspect the suspension system and coil springs.

• If necessary, they will replace the front or rear pair of coil springs.

• Check other related components and advise whether they need to be replaced.

• Lower the car and check the suspension again.

• Finally they’ll test drive the car.

What causes coil springs to break?

A sudden impact to the suspension, such as driving over a speed bump or large pothole, can result in coil spring damage or snapping. Heavier vehicles or cars carrying a heavy load will put more strain on the coil springs. This could lead to premature breakage or weakening overtime.

Winter weather can also have a significant impact on the number of coil springs that fail. This is down to damp conditions causing corrosion and cold temperatures making it easier for coils to snap. Many coil spring failures are not always noticed by the driver. Often they’ll hear a crack, but can’t locate the cause of the noise, and it is only when the car has its MOT that broken coil springs are found.

When should a coil spring be replaced?

There really is no set lifespan for coil springs and many can last the lifetime of the vehicle. However, poor road conditions and heavier cars can result in coil springs needing to be replaced more frequently. If you experience any symptoms related to a broken coil spring you should have your car inspected and the springs replaced if necessary.

What are the symptoms of a bad coil springs?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for

• If your car is noticeably lower on one side or dipped in one corner.

• You notice strange rattles and knocks when driving on uneven roads.

• Your car’s steering is uneven, or veering off to one side.

• Harsh bouncing when driving.

What happens when we do a coil spring replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the car and inspect the suspension system and coil springs.

• If necessary, they will replace the front or rear pair of coil springs.

• Check other related components and advise whether they need to be replaced.

• Lower the car and check the suspension again.

• Finally they’ll test drive the car.

Can you drive with broken or missing coil springs?

No, it’s not recommended. Given that coil springs are essential for the handling, braking and general safety of the vehicle, as soon as you are aware that a coil spring has broken, it must be replaced. Coil springs are replaced in pairs usually, so both sides will be done at the same time.

What happens if you don't change a broken coil spring?

Failing to replace a broken coil spring will result in a very bumpy ride for you and your passengers. The car will also be harder to control and you may find that the steering veers off to one side. Given that coil springs are essential for the handling, braking and general safety of the vehicle, as soon as you are aware that a coil spring has broken, you should book it in to be inspected and replaced.