Your pickup truck is built to handle tough jobs and rough roads, but if it suddenly feels like you’re bouncing all over the place, something isn’t right. Excessive bouncing, especially after hitting a bump or driving over uneven terrain, is a clear sign that your suspension is no longer doing its job properly.
The suspension system in your truck is designed to absorb shock, keep the tires in contact with the road, and provide a stable ride—even under load. When parts of that system wear out or fail, the result is a bouncy, uncomfortable, and less safe driving experience.
Worn or Leaking Shocks
The most common reason for increased bouncing is worn-out shock absorbers. Shocks dampen the motion of your suspension after a bump, preventing the truck from continuing to bounce. Over time, shocks wear out internally or begin to leak fluid, reducing their ability to control motion.
If you notice that your truck bounces more than once after hitting a bump, especially when driving slowly or over speed bumps, the shocks may no longer be effective. A quick bounce test—pushing down on a corner of the truck and watching how quickly it settles—can give you a basic idea, but a full inspection is the best way to confirm.
Worn Leaf Springs or Coil Springs
Pickups often rely on heavy-duty leaf springs in the rear and coil springs in the front. These components support the weight of the vehicle and help absorb road impacts. Over time, they can sag, crack, or lose their strength, especially if the truck is used frequently for towing or carrying heavy loads.
If your truck sits lower than it used to, or if it leans to one side, worn springs could be the cause. When the springs weaken, the shocks are forced to do more of the work, leading to quicker wear and a much bumpier ride.
Worn Bushings and Mounts
Your truck’s suspension system includes a variety of bushings, mounts, and joints that help absorb vibration and allow components to move smoothly. As these parts wear out, they can become loose or noisy, resulting in poor ride quality and increased bouncing.
You may hear clunking or squeaking when going over bumps or feel extra movement in the steering. These signs indicate that something in the suspension has lost its firmness and needs to be replaced.
Tire Problems Can Make It Worse
Tires play a supporting role in how smooth your ride feels. If your tires are overinflated, underinflated, or have uneven wear, they can exaggerate suspension issues and increase bounce. Mismatched or old tires can also affect how your truck handles bumps and turns.
Checking tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition is a quick and easy first step if your ride feels off. But if the tires are in good shape, the suspension likely needs a closer look.
Weight and Load Imbalance
Pickup trucks are designed to carry heavy loads, but when weight is distributed unevenly or exceeds the truck’s capacity, the suspension can struggle. Carrying too much weight in the rear can compress the springs beyond their limit and cause the front end to lift, leading to a floaty or unstable ride.
If the bounce increases when the bed is loaded or if the truck feels unbalanced, it may be time to inspect the suspension components for wear and determine whether an upgrade is necessary to increase your load capacity.
Oswald Service and Repair – Suspension Solutions in Falls and Rexburg, ID
At Oswald Service and Repair, our technicians know how to diagnose and correct bouncing, sagging, and suspension issues in pickup trucks. Whether your shocks are worn, your springs are sagging, or your bushings need replacement, we’ll get your ride back under control.
Schedule a suspension inspection today at one of our Idaho locations and drive smoother, safer, and more confidently on every road.