Every spring, road crews hit the streets to repair potholes, patch asphalt, and begin construction projects that often turn your commute into a challenge. While these repairs improve safety long-term, they can be tough on your vehicle — especially your brakes and suspension.
At Quality Service Center in York, PA, we see how uneven pavement, dips, and debris quietly wear down your car’s most important systems. Fortunately, there are smart ways to protect your vehicle from damage caused by spring road construction.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- How road construction affects your brakes and suspension
- Warning signs to watch for
- Practical maintenance tips to avoid costly repairs
Read on to keep your car safe, smooth, and road-ready this spring.
How Spring Road Work Damages Your Vehicle
Winter weather causes roads to crack, expand, and break down. When spring arrives, construction crews begin repairing the damage with temporary patches, pothole fills, and major resurfacing projects. Unfortunately, all of this work can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s brake and suspension systems.
Common Issues Caused by Road Construction
- Potholes can misalign your steering, damage your suspension, or bend your wheels.
- Debris and gravel can get caught in brake components or chip paint and undercarriage surfaces.
- Stop-and-go traffic increases brake wear and adds stress to the suspension system.
- Temporary detours and unmarked bumps can strain shocks, struts, and control arms.
At Quality Service Center, our goal is to help you reduce the long-term impact of seasonal road work with practical, effective seasonal vehicle maintenance solutions.
Suspension Damage from Construction Zones
Your car’s suspension system is designed to absorb impacts, keep your ride smooth, and maintain control. But that system can take a serious hit from rough roads, potholes, and uneven pavement.
Signs You May Need Suspension Service
If you’re wondering whether to search for suspension service near me, here are a few key indicators to watch for:
- Your vehicle feels bouncy or unsettled on smooth roads
- You hear clunks or rattles when driving over bumps
- Your car pulls to one side while driving or braking
- Tires show uneven or unusual wear
- Visible oil leaks on shocks or struts
Your suspension system doesn’t just keep your ride comfortable. It plays a critical role in your ability to safely turn, stop, and maneuver. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time for a professional inspection.
At Quality Service Center, we have the tools and experience to thoroughly evaluate your suspension, including shock absorber repair, bushing replacements, and strut services.
Why Brakes Take a Beating During Road Work
Brakes are another system that faces a lot of stress during springtime road construction. Construction zones often involve reduced speed limits, uneven pavement, and tight turns. This means more frequent braking, which wears down your brake pads and rotors more quickly.
Warning Signs You Need Brake Repair
If you’ve noticed any of the following, it may be time to schedule brake repair in York, PA:
- Squeaking, squealing, or grinding sounds while braking
- Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal
- Longer stopping distances
- A brake pedal that feels soft or spongy
- Dashboard warning lights related to braking or ABS
We don’t just check the obvious. We inspect your entire braking system, from pads and rotors to calipers and brake fluid. Our ASE-certified technicians ensure your brakes are functioning safely and effectively with every visit.
Does Road Construction Affect Alignment?
Absolutely. One solid hit on a pothole or a few weeks of driving through uneven construction detours can throw your wheels out of alignment. Misalignment might not seem like a serious issue at first, but it can lead to steering problems, premature tire wear, and reduced fuel efficiency.
Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
- Your car pulls to the left or right while driving straight
- The steering wheel feels off-center
- You feel resistance or looseness while turning
- Tires wear unevenly or wear out faster than expected
We use the Hunter Hawkeye Elite alignment machine to ensure precision and accuracy during every alignment service. If you’re searching for wheel alignment in York, PA, we’re the local experts trusted by families and fleets alike.
How to Protect Your Vehicle During Spring Construction Season
The best defense is a proactive one. By staying on top of seasonal vehicle maintenance, you can reduce the impact road construction has on your brakes, suspension, and alignment.
1. Schedule a Suspension Inspection
After a rough winter and bumpy spring, it’s a good idea to get your suspension system inspected for wear. Our team checks for worn or damaged shocks, struts, bushings, and control arms, ensuring your vehicle rides safely and comfortably.
2. Inspect and Maintain Your Brakes
Even if you haven’t noticed any braking issues, spring is a great time to check pad thickness, inspect rotors, and top off brake fluid. Dust and debris from road work can accelerate wear, and our BG fluid exchange services help ensure your system is running clean and smooth.
3. Get Your Tires Checked
Tires are your first line of defense against potholes. Proper inflation and tread depth help prevent blowouts and steering issues. We offer in-house tire protection and Road Force balancing to extend tire life and maintain smooth performance.
4. Book an Alignment Appointment
If you’ve driven through several construction zones, chances are your alignment is slightly off. Even a small misalignment can wear tires unevenly and affect steering. Let our team get your vehicle back in spec with our Hunter alignment system.
5. Don’t Forget the Fluids
Brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid all take a beating during stop-and-go driving. Our BG Products help extend the life of your vehicle and maintain peak performance, even under tough road conditions.
Why Quality Service Center is York’s Go-To Shop
At Quality Service Center, we’ve been helping York drivers stay safe and comfortable on the road since 1998. Our team isn’t just trained and certified, we’re part of the community. We believe in treating every car as if it were our own and every customer like family.
Here’s why locals trust us for everything from brake repair to suspension work:
- ASE Master Certified Technicians
- NAPA AutoCare Center – Gold Certified
- Friendly, transparent service with no high-pressure tactics
- State-of-the-art tools and diagnostic equipment
- 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty
- Synchrony financing available with 6 months deferred interest
- Clean, modern office and customer amenities
- Loaner cars, shuttle service, after-hours drop-off and pickup
Our service manager was named NAPA ASE Tech of the Year in 2021, and our team continues to attend training through ATI, ASTE, and other industry events to stay on the cutting edge.
Don’t Let Spring Roadwork Wreck Your Ride
Construction season is here, and that means more stress on your brakes, suspension, and alignment. Catching issues early or preventing them entirely is the key to saving money and staying safe behind the wheel.
Let Quality Service Center be your partner in smart car care. We’ll provide honest recommendations, high-quality service, and real peace of mind.
Schedule Your Spring Maintenance Today
At Quality Service Center, we’re here to keep your vehicle reliable and road-ready with honest, high-quality service you can trust. Whether you need brake repair, suspension work, or a seasonal checkup after a rough spring, our team has the experience and equipment to get the job done right.
Call us at 717-792-0948, visit us at 28 S. Oxford Street, York, PA 17404, or schedule your appointment online at www.qualityservicecenter.com.
We go the extra mile to make every customer feel like family. It’s not just about fixing your car, it’s about building a relationship based on transparency, care, and a commitment to your safety.
