Subtle car issues may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind.

While problems developing in your engine or exhaust may become fairly obvious after a while, a strut or shock absorber going bad can continue on for quite some time before any problem is noticed.

Because things typically go wrong within the components, a problem in this area tends to be out of sight, out of mind, according to Midtown Auto Clinic owner Peter Bartley. And with bad struts and shocks comes hidden dangers.

“The danger with worn shocks and struts is that it can affect a lot of things,” Bartley said. “Stopping distances are longer, the quality of the ride can reach unsafe levels and especially it’s more noticeable over uneven terrain.”

Identifying a problem with suspension becomes even more tricky given the time frame involved. Problems can be gradual because they are happening inside the part. People who drive their vehicle a lot simply may miss the subtle indications.

“The problem is a lot of times, as the owners operate the vehicle over the years the shocks and struts wear off,” Bartley said. “It’s gradual so they don’t notice it right away. The way the car feels and handles, the driver adapts. They almost become immune to it.”

The best way stay on top of struts and shocks is through checkups. Bartley said that around the 50,000 mile mark, shocks and struts begin showing noticeable wear. A good habit is to have both the alignment and suspension systems checked once a year.

Outside of that, drivers should be aware of the following as early indicators that something is wrong in the suspension:

•Excessive veering or wandering of the vehicle

•Vehicle vibration

•Irregular tire wear

For more information visit www.midtownautoclinic.com.