If a spring in the system has sagged or broken, the vehicle is likely to be lower on one side than the other.

Park on a level surface and try the 'bounce test'. Rest all of your weight on either the front or back of your car, and pay close attention to how many times the car bounces before it stops. If it continues to bounce more than two or three times, there is likely a problem.

Does the ride feel bumpier than usual? This could be down to suspension trouble. Like any vehicle parts, the components of your suspension system will eventually wear out, and will no longer absorb bumps and shakes like it should.

When you drive over defects in the road, the springs in your suspension will compress and expand to absorb any vertical movement. The dampers, or shock absorbers, then get rid of any motion left in the spring, which stops the car from bouncing. The fluid held in your shock absorbers can sometimes seep out, which will eventually cause suspension failure. If you can, have a look at the shock absorbers (located under the car, near the wheels). If they're covered in oil, there's a leak that needs fixing.

Your tyres should wear fairly evenly over time, so abnormal tyre tread can be a sure sign that something's not quite right.

If the inside or outside of your vehicle's tyre is more worn than the rest, this could be a result of a poorly functioning suspension system,or incorrect wheel alignment.

Many things can affect your car's handling and make it difficult to control, such as incorrect wheel alignment or poor steering response. With a failing suspension system, you'll notice a drift or pull when turning corners, sometimes accompanied by a knocking sound. This could be the effect of a damaged anti-roll bar no longer keeping the car stable against the force of the turn - a serious safety risk if left unchecked.