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Car Sits Lower At One Corner

A car that sits noticeably lower at one corner usually has a broken coil spring, a failed air suspension component or a leaking hydraulic suspension part.

High risk

Have it checked promptly. A broken spring can damage the tyre and affect handling and braking.

Short answer · Why is my car lower on one side?

Coil springs can crack, often near the bottom coil, especially with age and corrosion. The car then drops at that corner and may clunk over bumps. On cars with air suspension, a leaking air spring or line lets that corner sink, often overnight. A broken spring end can also press against the tyre.

On this page

Safe checks you can do

  1. Park on level groundCompare the gap between tyre and wheel arch at each corner.
  2. Look at the springA broken coil or a gap in the spring is often visible.Do not drive if a broken spring touches the tyre.
  3. Note if it drops overnightTypical of air suspension leaks.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Is there a clunk over bumps?A broken spring is likely.
  2. Does the car have air suspension?Air leak or compressor fault.
  3. Is there a suspension warning?Air systems usually show one.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Broken coil springCommon with age and corrosion.
  2. Leaking air springCorner sinks overnight.
  3. Air suspension compressor or valve faultCorner does not lift.
  4. Worn spring seat or mountCorner sits low.

Questions about Car Sits Lower At One Corner

Are springs replaced in pairs?

Usually yes, so both sides sit at the same height.

Can I drive with a broken spring?

Only carefully to a workshop if the spring does not touch the tyre.