Coil springs often go unnoticed among the various car components, and many drivers may struggle to comprehend their purpose. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that cars such as the Ford Fiesta MK6 simply cannot function without them.
Coil springs in your car are a crucial component of the suspension system, responsible for absorbing the vibrations caused by driving on uneven surfaces. Typically, they have a lifespan of approximately 60,000 to 90,000 miles before replacement becomes necessary. However, when they eventually wear out, the expenses involved in the repair process can vary depending on the number of springs that require fixing. On average, it takes around one to three hours to replace each spring, with an estimated cost of £40 per spring.
In comparison to many other car repairs, the cost mentioned may not appear overly burdensome. While it may not be a pleasant expense, it is not prohibitively expensive like purchasing a new engine, for instance. However, if your car is considerably aged or if it has recently required several repairs, you might contemplate the possibility of scrapping it altogether.
Identifying signs of coil spring failure
As your coil springs are a crucial component of your vehicle, you can expect several prominent indications when they are deteriorating. Here are some significant indicators to be mindful of:
- When navigating bumpy or uneven surfaces, one might notice loud clanks or knocking sounds.
- If you observe that one corner of your vehicle is positioned lower than the other corners, commonly known as misalignment, it might also exhibit increased swaying or bouncing while driving.
- Your vehicle veers in one direction, or you experience difficulties with steering.
All of these indicators can carry significant implications on their own, so it is advisable not to disregard them. It is in your best interest to promptly seek the assistance of a professional mechanic to address the issues with your vehicle.
What are the reasons behind the failure of coil springs?
Fatigue is the key factor here. Similar to various components in your vehicle, your coil springs endure continuous usage, resulting in eventual wear and tear. However, it is important to note that they typically last for many thousands of miles before requiring replacement.
Coil spring failure is greatly influenced by corrosion. During the manufacturing process, coil springs are coated with a protective plastic layer. However, over time, this coating can deteriorate, especially in winter when roads are regularly treated with salt to enhance traction on snowy and icy surfaces. The corrosive nature of the salt can adversely impact coil springs that are already approaching the end of their lifespan.
It has been suggested previously that the problem arises due to the utilization of lower-quality metal, driving over speed bumps at high speeds, or overburdening the vehicle. While it is true that The latter two actions are generally not beneficial to the car, they seldom have a significant impact on the coil springs.
Is it possible to operate a vehicle even if the springs are broken?
You are not allowed to operate a vehicle if any part of its suspension is broken. If Any coil springs are damaged or compressed, it can result in your car sagging, leading to further harm in the immediate and long run.
Collapsed coil springs pose a significant concern, particularly if your vehicle is equipped with larger or wider wheels. In such cases, the proximity of the tire sidewall to the spring becomes a cause for concern. This proximity increases the likelihood of the tire being affected when the spring fails, potentially resulting in damage.
How can I ensure that my coil springs do not fail?
Frankly speaking, there isn’t much.
The individuals who hold the most influence over addressing the issue are typically the car manufacturers themselves. In certain cases, they may install spring catchers to minimize the potential harm that could arise from a broken spring.