A few weeks ago, out in the wide-open countryside, there was this super cool Jeep. You know, the kind – big and strong, ready for wild adventures. But this Jeep had a secret. Whenever it drove over bumpy roads, it didn’t just go vroom-vroom like regular cars. Nope! It made a funny noise – a squeak, like when you accidentally step on a squeaky toy.
This could be a familiar scenario to many among us. I often get a question: “Why does my jeep squeak when I go over bumps?” And there is a lack of clear discussion like finding the reasons over the web. That’s why I have considered it and decided to elaborate on Jeep squeaking over bumps.
Briefly, there are some common reasons to have a squeaky jeep over bumps: a damaged drive belt, bad shock absorbers, and worn-out suspension parts. Often, lack of lubrication can also cause squeaking or creaking. Please read this full blog to learn more about these things and how to treat them.
Basics of Jeep Suspension System
Before I start explaining the reasons, knowing about the suspension system would be helpful. After all, it provides a smooth ride precisely when you drive over bumps. When it becomes defective, you will possibly have a squeaky ride.
According to Extreme Terrain, a Jeep’s suspension system has several components. The main parts are control arms, shock absorbers, springs, struts, and joints. Likewise, all these components work together to absorb shocks and maintain the balance and stability of the Jeep.
- Upgrading to adjustable shocks allows you to fine-tune your Jeep’s suspension to your preferred comfort level (source).
- Steering stabilizer absorbs impacts while driving. It prevents any transfer of energy to the Jeep’s steering.
- The sway bar connects the left and right wheels in front and back. It reduces the body roll when you turn the Jeep.
- Most jeeps have rubber bushings to flex, stretch, and compress for better handling.
Common Causes of Squeaking Noises
“Just … I go over bumps I can hear a squeak ….” (source).
“For the past several months, I hear a squeak/chirping noise … going over a series of bumps” (source).
These are some examples of people worried about the squeaking of their jeeps over bumps. So, this is not a strange event to hear those squeaking noises. In this section, I will shed light on the reasons for Jeep squeaking in the view of automobile experts.
1. Worn-out or Damaged Serpentine Belt
You may know this belt as the “drive belt”. According to Firestone, it is a long, winding belt in a car’s suspension system or Jeep. It keeps the alternator, power steering pump, AC, and water pump functional.
Usually, a serpentine belt lasts 50,000 and 100,000 miles. But it can wear out over time and start to squeak due to friction and heat. It may wear out for a bad tensioner, a stuck pulley or bad idler pulley, exposure to coolant, or cold weather (source). One more thing: if you hear a squealing noise from the front of the Jeep, it may indicate a slippage or misalignment of the serpentine belt (source).
Possible Solutions
You should inspect the belt. If it appears worn-out or damaged, replace it soon to avoid sudden breakdowns. Also, it will eliminate the squeaking when you drive the Jeep on a bumpy road.
2. Bad Strut Cartridges or Shock Absorbers
The strut cartridge or shock absorbers absorb the impact of bumps and potholes to make the ride smooth. But when they get aged or damaged, they can start to squeak.
Now, assume your Jeep has a bad strut cartridge. You will get a sloping car height to one side, bouncy suspension, rough ride, and reduced handling and braking performance. Besides, other things may happen like uneven tire wear, hydraulic oil seepage, steering issues, tire alignment issues, and so on (sources: 1,2,3,4)
Possible Solutions
If you see any of the above symptoms, you will need strut or shock absorber replacement or repair. No more annoying squeaking!
3. Worn-Out Ball Joints
Ball joints, the crucial parts of the suspension system, connect the wheels and suspension to make them move freely. These joints have a bearing stud and socket inside a lubricated casing (source). Typically, they carry much of the weight of the Jeep for 70000-150000 miles (source).
Over time, the sealed casing gets damaged, and those joints become less effective. It may make entry of dirt into the suspension system. Also, it may cause a loss of lubrication. Once these happen, you will hear squeaking or knocking from your Jeep.
Possible Solutions
Do you grease or lubricate the ball joints of your Jeep regularly? If not, you should start lubricating it soon. Otherwise, you may need to replace the damaged joints soon to eliminate the squeak.
4. Bad Suspension Springs
Suspension springs absorb shock and maintain the balance of the vehicle. They will stabilize your Jeep, especially when you drive over bumps and potholes. However, a jeep’s suspension springs are of two main types: coil and leaf springs (source).
Coil springs break less often than leaf springs. But you may need to work harder to replace the broken coil springs. Conversely, leaf springs last less than their counterparts. Both springs lose their efficiency over time by weakening or breaking. As a result, your Jeep may squeak on even and bumpy surfaces.
Possible Solutions
Suppose you find shock absorbers are leaking fluid or have excess damage. Then, you may need to repair all of them, including the springs. Yet, it is typically a job for a professional mechanic, as it involves heavy lifting and precision.
5. Aged or Worn-out Bushings
According to JD Power, bushings are mounted on steering joints and vehicle suspension. These rubber bushings can hold the sway bars tight to the frame (source). Through this, they can control joint movement to reduce friction, vibration, and noise between the various parts.
But often, the lack of lubrication or excessive performance can make the bushings dry or crack. In such cases, they will cause squeaking and creaking in your Jeep.
Possible Solutions
First, you need to identify the worn bushings with signs of wear like discoloration, swelling, or deformation. Then, replace them with newer ones. You may follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Otherwise, call a mechanic to install high-quality bushings. And don’t forget to maintain proper lubrication regularly.
6. Lack of Lubrication
Squeaking in Jeep over bumps can also happen due to a lack of lubrication in different parts. As much as you drive, the suspension parts like tie-rods, ball joints, and steering linkage lose their lubricants.
Insufficient lubrication in the power steering system can cause the parts to rub together with friction. As a result, the system emits a squeaking sound (source). Additionally, a lack of lubrication in metal contact points or brake sliding components can cause them to squeak (source).
Possible Solutions
Identify the parts of the suspension system that require lubrication. They can be any component. But you should use the right lubricant for automotive use (for jeeps). It can withstand the heat and pressure of the suspension system. Next, apply the lubricant using a grease gun swiftly. I hope you can do that, right?
Can I Remain Safe by Driving a Squeaky Jeep?
You, alone or with passengers, have no risk of driving a jeep with squeaky noise. But it can be a boring or irritating ride. Your partner won’t be happy to get a ride in your Jeep.
It may indicate potential issues with the suspension system. Worn bushings, loose braces, or other components could cause the squeaking noise. And you must inspect, repair, and replace them accordingly. Otherwise, they may cause performance loss and, eventually, compromise your driving safety.
You may call a professional if you are unsure about the reasons or sources of squeaking noises. He will give you the best ideas regarding the issues.
Conclusion: Why Does My Jeep Squeak When I Go Over Bumps?
So far, you have learned that squeaking noise does not come from a single source. It can appear from any part of the Jeep, particularly from the suspension system’s components. You should identify the source and take the necessary measures to sort out the problems quickly.
In this blog, I have discussed all possible reasons (plus their solutions) for a squeaky jeep over bumpy roads. I hope you have understood the discussions well. Please try to follow my instructions to eliminate the squeaking.
Have a squeak-free driving!
