Have you ever noticed how quickly you can become accustomed to an annoying shake or rattle? You may forget it's there until the condition becomes serious. Worn shock absorbers or struts are a classic example of the kind of deterioration that warrants early attention. The first indication of pending failure of these critical parts is when the vehicle dives when brakes are applied, sways on turns or "bottoms out" on a bumpy road.

A visual inspection under the car often discloses potential trouble, such as a leaking or damaged shock or worn parts such as rubber bushings.