How to Tell if Your Leaf Springs are Bad

How Should a Leaf Spring Look?

Before getting into the characteristics of a worn/damaged set of leaf springs, let's first verify how they should look. 

Leaf springs are arranged into packs–a central leaf with eyelets at each end to house chassis-mount bushings and several supporting leaves that reduce in length as their positioning distances from the central leaf. All leaves in the spring pack are bound using a centering bolt and prevented from misaligning by a series of rebound clips. 

In proper working order, leaf spring packs should have a noticeable arch with the apex pointing downward, positioned just above the axle. Additionally, all individual leaves should be aligned and free from structural issues such as cracks or excessive corrosion.

You should also consider the condition of eyelet bushings. These integral bushings should be free from cracks, tears, dry rot, and other physical damage. The rubber should also be pliable, ensuring ample damping of vibrations and bumps.

What Do Bad Leaf Springs Look Like?

Now that we know what leaf springs should look like, what are the visual symptoms of a worn or damaged leaf spring? 

The individual leaves are one of the first areas to inspect on a leaf spring. Due to excess corrosion or overloading, individual leaves may crack or shear completely, leaving a noticeable break in the steel. However, even if the damage is limited to a crack, you may see a line of rust running vertically through the width of the leaf. 

Another common breakage point is the centering pin, tasked with the vital job of centering the individual leaves together, as well as centering the axle under the leaf spring. If this pin breaks, you may notice one side of your vehicle's axle sitting too far forwards or rearwards in the wheel well. 

Lastly, check the two large bushings in the central leaf's eyelets and the bushings in the shackles. These components should be free from dry rot, tears, or excessive wear. If these symptoms are present, your leaf spring bushings are toast!

Signs and Symptoms of Bad Leaf Springs

Not everyone crawls under their vehicle regularly to check for chassis damage; for this reason, it's a good idea to know some basic visual and handling characteristics that may suggest damage to your leaf springs.

Suspension Sag

One of the first hints of worn leaf springs is sagging on one or both sides. If your vehicle sits lower in the rear than you remember, or if one side is notably lower than the other while parked on flat ground, you may have a damaged leaf spring. 

Another symptom of suspension sag is a rough ride resulting from the axle making contact with the bump stops over bumps and dips.

Unusual Noises

You may have a damaged or worn leaf spring if you've recently noticed an audible squeak or clunk from the chassis, specifically the rear. These noises would be most prevalent when traversing bumps, taking off from a complete stop, or coming to a full stop. 

Odd Handling Characteristics

When leaf springs are worn or damaged, you'll likely notice a change in handling for the worst. Due to worn bushings, uneven sag, or damaged center pins, you may experience unstable driving characteristics as the rear axle shifts beneath your vehicle.

FAQ About Leaf Springs

Can You Drive With a Broken Leaf Spring? 

Can you or should you? The answer to the first question is maybe, though the answer to the second is always a resounding NO.

Leaf springs are crucial components of your vehicle's suspension; driving with any damage to the spring pack puts yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at risk. Therefore, whenever you note visual damage to your vehicle's leaf springs or suspect damage based on erratic handling characteristics, park it until you can address the issue. 

How Long Do Leaf Springs Last? 

If not exposed to road salt or overloaded, leaf springs can last the lifetime of your vehicle. However, you can expect their lifespan to diminish if frequently abused or driven across salty roadways. 

On the other hand, rubber bushings typically last 10-15 years if the vehicle is maintained correctly. If abused or neglected, this number will likely decrease. 

How Much Does it Cost to Have Leaf Springs Replaced? 

The cost of replacing leaf springs can depend on various factors, including OEM vs. aftermarket components, whether or not both sides require replacing, and the labor cost in your particular shop. 

As a rule of thumb, account for $500-$1,000.

Find Replacement Leaf Springs

As always, for any suspension needs for your pickup, van, Jeep, or SUV, check out RealTruck's extensive catalog. We carry various factory-style replacement leaf springs and lift components from top-selling companies like Zone Off-Road, Pro Comp, BDS, and Skyjacker.