Symptoms
- One corner of the car visibly sits lower than the others
- Car looks tilted or uneven when parked on flat ground
- Possible scraping noise from that corner over bumps
Likely causes
- CommonBroken or sagging coil springA cracked or weakened spring loses its ability to support that corner's weight.
- PossibleLeaking air suspension component (if equipped)On vehicles with air suspension, a leak in that corner's air spring or line causes it to sag.
- PossibleLow or flat tire on that cornerA simple flat or low tire can look like a suspension sag at a glance.
What to do
- Rule out a low or flat tire first by checking pressure on that corner.
- Compare ride height by eye or with a tape measure from the fender to the ground on all four corners.
- Look closely at the coil spring on the low corner for visible cracks or a broken coil.
- If the vehicle has air suspension, check for a warning light or listen for a hissing air leak near that corner.
- Have a mechanic confirm the cause and replace the spring or air suspension component as needed.
Tools and parts
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tape measure
Coil springSearch: “coil spring for [your car model]”
Air suspension air springSearch: “air suspension air spring for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
Have a mechanic confirm whether it's a broken spring, air suspension leak, or tire issue before ordering parts.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.