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Soft suspension and excessive body roll in my 2023 Integra A-Spec

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:41 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec

Hey everyone,

I've been feeling like the suspension in my 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec has gotten noticeably softer lately. I'm experiencing a lot more body roll when taking corners, and the car seems to squat more under acceleration and dive more under braking. It just doesn't feel as planted or responsive as it used to.

I bought the car new, and it only has about 15,000 miles on it. I wouldn't expect the suspension to be wearing out this quickly. There are no strange noises, just this feeling of a 'loose' or 'floaty' ride.

Could this be an issue with the struts, or perhaps something with the adaptive damper system if the A-Spec has one? Any thoughts on what might be going on?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:41 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing increased body roll, nose dive, and squat in a relatively new 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec with only 15,000 miles is unusual and points to a potential issue with the suspension system. While premature wear is rare, it's not impossible.

Common Causes:

  1. Worn or Defective Struts/Shocks: Even at low mileage, a strut or shock absorber can fail. This could be due to a manufacturing defect or damage from an impact. A failing strut will lose its ability to dampen suspension movement, leading to excessive body motion.
  2. Adaptive Damper System Malfunction (if equipped): The A-Spec trim often includes adaptive dampers. If there's an electrical fault or a mechanical issue within this system, the dampers might be stuck in their softest setting or not responding correctly to driving conditions. Check for any dashboard warning lights related to the suspension system.
  3. Broken or Sagging Springs: While less common at this mileage, a broken coil spring or a spring that has lost its tension can cause one corner or the entire vehicle to sag, leading to poor handling.
  4. Worn Bushings: While usually associated with noises, severely worn control arm or sway bar bushings could contribute to a 'loose' feeling if there's excessive play.

Steps to Diagnose:

  1. Visual Inspection: Look under the car for any signs of fluid leaks from the struts (indicating a blown seal). Check coil springs for cracks or breaks. Inspect bushings for severe cracking or tearing.
  2. Bounce Test: Push down hard on each corner of the car and release. A good suspension should rebound once or twice and then settle. If it bounces excessively, the strut/shock is likely worn.
  3. Dashboard Warnings: Check your instrument cluster for any suspension-related warning lights or messages, which would indicate an electronic fault with an adaptive damper system.

When to See a Shop:

Given the low mileage and the significant change in handling, it's highly recommended to take your 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec to an Acura dealership or a reputable independent shop specializing in modern suspension systems. They can perform a thorough inspection, including diagnostic scans for any adaptive damper system faults, and identify if a component is defective under warranty. Addressing this will restore your car's intended handling characteristics and safety.

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