How Can I Make My Car Ride Smoothly?

If your car is riding smoothly, you have more control over the vehicle's handling. Sometimes a bumpy ride is caused by small maintenance issues that you can resolve yourself or inexpensively with a mechanic. Before you write off your car and start looking for a new one just because has an uneven ride, do a few simple checks first.

Things You'll Need

• Tire gauge
• Car fluids

Instructions

1. Align the wheels on your vehicle. If you've got a bumpy or shaky ride, your wheels may need realigning. Bring your car into the repair shop and have the wheels aligned.

2. Buy new, high-quality tires with a high "ride quality"---ask the tire salesman for a 55 series or higher. You can also have your current tires rotated so that the back tires (with less tread wear) are on the front for a smoother ride.

3. Check the pressure of your tires with a tire gauge. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and the tread wears down quicker while overinflated tires can actually make for a bumpier ride than usual. Check the side of your tire to find the ideal pressure, i.e., PSI (pounds per square inch).

4. Check the engine for any problems, such as a bad knock sensor that will cause your car to rattle and shake while driving. Engine issues could also cause rough idling. Take your car in for a diagnostic check, which is free at some auto parts stores. If there's a problem or a part needs replacing, bring it in for servicing.

5. Take your car in for a tune up. During the tuneup, the mechanic will change the spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, rotors and other parts needed for optimal performance. Get a tuneup every 30,000 miles or as often as your car's owner's manual advises.

6. Check the vehicle's fluids. If your car is low on fluids, such as transmission, engine oil and even coolant, it could negatively affect how smooth your car rides.

7. Check the suspension system. Sometimes worn suspension parts (joints and shocks) are responsible for an uneven or uncomfortable ride. Check the suspension by pushing down on the front end of the car; if it bounces, that could mean the suspension needs attention.

References

• Edmunds: Choosing Tires
• Tire Rack: Over and Underinflated Tires
• Cost Helper: Cost of a Tune Up
• The Car Guys: How Often to Get a Tune Up