At Barry Cooper Auto Repairs, we’ve had a run of vehicles requiring lower control arm and suspension strut repairs lately. One recent high-kilometre Toyota Camry was a particularly good example of why suspension problems shouldn’t be left too long.

When Worn Suspension Becomes a Safety Issue

The customer had reportedly been driving the Camry with the issue for around four months before having the necessary repairs carried out. By the time we inspected the vehicle, the movement in the front suspension was significant.

One problem we can see on higher-kilometre vehicles, including Toyota Camrys, is excessive wear in the lower control arm bushes and associated suspension components.

In this case, when the vehicle was braking slowly, there was so much movement that the front wheel was able to move backwards within the wheel arch. The movement was severe enough for the tyre to contact the wheel arch.

This isn't simply an annoying noise or minor suspension issue. Excessive movement like this can affect:

Continuing to drive with badly worn suspension components can also place additional stress on other parts of the vehicle.

After inspecting the Camry and identifying the extent of the wear, the lower control arms needed to be replaced. Replacing the worn components removed the excessive movement and restored the front suspension so the wheel remained correctly located during braking and normal driving.

The Repair: Replacing the Lower Control Arms

It was certainly a repair we would have preferred to carry out much earlier!

Suspension wear often develops gradually. Because of this, drivers can become accustomed to changes in the way their vehicle feels and may not realise just how much movement or wear has developed.

Signs that your suspension or control arms may need attention can include clunking or knocking noises, unusual tyre wear, changes in steering, instability under braking, vibration, poor handling or the vehicle feeling less settled on the road.

If your car doesn't feel right, particularly when steering or braking, don't wait several months hoping the problem will go away.

At Barry Cooper Auto Repairs in North Hobart, we can inspect your vehicle's steering and suspension components, identify excessive wear and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Concerned about your suspension? Book your vehicle with Barry Cooper Auto Repairs and let our experienced team take a look.

One recent high-kilometre Toyota Camry was a particularly good example of why suspension problems shouldn’t be left too long.

Case Study: Worn Toyota Camry Control Arms Causing Serious Wheel Movement | Barry Cooper Auto Repairs

Case Study: Worn Toyota Camry Control Arms Causing Serious Wheel Movement

Do you feel every bump in the road? Does your car struggle to grip the road properly? Your shock absorbers be worn! Don’t take the risk—bring your vehicle to Barry Cooper Auto Repairs in North Hobart for an expert assessment.

Shock absorbers are one of the most misunderstood yet critical components of your vehicle. Many drivers don’t realise their primary job is to keep your tyres in firm contact with the road, ensuring both safety and performance.

Shock absorbers, along with struts, are vital parts of your car’s suspension system. They directly affect your vehicle's steering, stability, handling, braking and ride comfort. Replacing worn or faulty shocks and struts, as well as inspecting the overall suspension system, helps maintain control, safety, and a smoother driving experience.  

A lesser-known fact is that shock absorbers also play a key role in reducing wear on other vehicle components, such as tyres, by minimising the vibration and stress that uneven roads place on the car.

If you notice concerning signs of shock absorber wear, don’t wait. Visit the team at Barry Cooper Auto Repairs in North Hobart. Our qualified technicians can conduct a road test and provide professional advice. Below are some of the warning signs to watch for:  

Trouble stopping  Worn shock absorbers can increase your stopping distance by up to 20%, which could be life-threatening. Addressing this issue immediately is crucial.  

Nose-diving and swerving  Does the front of your car dip down when braking, or does the vehicle swerve when you slow down? These are classic signs of shock absorber problems.  

Steering wheel vibrations   If your steering wheel vibrates excessively, even on relatively smooth roads, it could point to faulty shock absorbers.

Drifting in side winds  If your car veers or drifts in mild side winds, it’s a strong indicator that your shock absorbers may not be functioning correctly. 

Excessive bouncing and rolling  Is your car bouncing excessively over bumps, railway tracks, or uneven surfaces? Or does it feel unsteady around corners? It might be time for a suspension check-up at Barry Cooper Auto Repairs.  

Uneven tyre wear   Uneven or patchy tyre wear, especially bald spots, is often a sign of worn shock absorbers. This issue can reduce your tyres’ lifespan and compromise road safety.  

At Barry Cooper Auto Repairs, we’re proud members of the Monroe Safety Specialist Program. This means our team is fully trained and committed to providing you with the right shock absorber solution tailored to your vehicle, driving habits, and individual needs. You can trust that any product we recommend will be fitted correctly and deliver optimal performance.  

Book an inspection with Barry Cooper Auto Repairs in North Hobart today, and let us help you keep your car safe, comfortable, and road-ready.

Ensure safety and comfort on the road. Visit Barry Cooper Auto Repairs in North Hobart for expert shock absorber inspections, repairs, and tailored solutions. Book your assessment today!

Dangers of Worn Shock Absorbers in North Hobart

Your car's suspension and steering are critical for stability, good handling and ultimately safety whilst on the road.  That's why a regular suspension and steering service that includes inspection of the overall suspension and steering system, will protect the longevity of your tyres and the efficiency of your vehicle.

At Barry Cooper Auto Repairs, we have highly trained mechanics that are familiar with all types of steering and suspension systems. We are able to inspect, diagnose and discuss possible maintenance and/or repairs that are required for your car. 

A regular suspension and steering service that includes inspection of the overall suspension and steering system, will protect the longevity of your tyres and the efficiency of your vehicle.

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Please be advised we will be closed for Hobart Show Day on Thursday 22nd Oct as well as the day after. 

The Hobart car service Barry Cooper Auto Repairs prides itself for quality service on gearboxes, suspension, engine fault diagnosis and general mechanic motor repairs.

Barry Cooper Auto Repairs mechanics perform engine fault diagnosis & engine tuning. We use specialist diagnostic equipment and scan tools along with brake lathe and gas analyser, professional Bosch products and quality replacement parts like Gates,Repco Ryco and Fuel miser.

The Hobart car service workshop offers in-house Wheel Balancing service, auto electrical, air conditioning, EFI, pre-purchase inspections, gearboxes and differentials, cooling systems, automatic transmissions, tyres and all general mechanical repairs.

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Related articles

Case Study: Worn Toyota Camry Control Arms Causing Serious Wheel Movement

Dangers of Worn Shock Absorbers