How to Safely Drive Over Speed Bumps to Protect Your Car
Speed bumps are a common sight in cities and on many roads, installed to encourage drivers to slow down and improve road safety, especially in residential areas, near schools, or where pedestrians are present. However, improperly navigating them can accelerate the wear and tear on vehicle components.
Expert Advice on Speed Bump Technique
Mechanic Juan José Ebenezer has shared advice on social media regarding the correct way to handle speed bumps without subjecting your car to unnecessary stress. In a TikTok video from his Talleres Ebenezer profile, Ebenezer states, "For as many speed bumps as you take, you won't ruin your car," aiming to dispel the idea that repeatedly driving over bumps inevitably damages a vehicle.
Ebenezer explains that the issue isn't the quantity of speed bumps, but rather how the driver approaches each one. His technique is simple: “reduce speed and then accelerate progressively, without jerks.” This avoids sudden compression and extension of the suspension, movements that occur when a vehicle quickly passes over a bump.
Understanding Suspension and Impact
The car’s shock absorbers and other suspension components are responsible for absorbing road irregularities. Approaching a speed bump at high speed increases the impact on these components. The situation worsens if the driver brakes hard just before the bump and then suddenly accelerates afterward, creating abrupt load changes that affect the vehicle's running gear and can increase wear over time.
Anticipation and Smooth Driving
Ebenezer emphasizes the importance of anticipation. He advises detecting the speed bump well in advance – approximately 50 meters before – and gradually reducing speed, adjusting to road conditions and available distance. This allows the vehicle to reach the bump at a moderate speed, preventing sudden braking. The size of the speed bump and the car’s characteristics also play a role; vehicles with lower ground clearance are more prone to scraping.
Regardless of the vehicle model, Ebenezer stresses that smooth driving is always beneficial. He also highlights the importance of properly homologated speed bumps, stating that most regulatory bumps, including plastic modules, are designed to minimize impact.