Automotive Part PickerCar Problems › Rear end squats down heavily when accelerating

Rear end squats down heavily when accelerating: Causes & How to Fix It

If your vehicle is showing rear end squats down heavily when accelerating, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.

Most likely causes

Worn Rear Shock Absorbers or Strutsaddress soon

Shock absorbers control the speed of weight transfer. When they wear out and lose their dampening ability, the rear end will rapidly compress or 'squat' under acceleration.

Weak or Sagging Rear Springsaddress soon

Springs support the actual weight of the vehicle. Over time, heavy use, or towing, they lose their tension and allow the vehicle to squat easily under load.

Incorrect or Under-rated Suspension Parts Installedminor

If standard light-duty shocks or springs were recently installed on a vehicle used for towing or heavy loads, they will not provide enough resistance against squatting.

Air Suspension System Failureurgent

On vehicles equipped with air ride, a failing ride height sensor or leaking air suspension solenoid can leave the rear end under-supported and prone to squatting.

Worn Rear Suspension Bushingsaddress soon

Degraded rear control arm or leaf spring shackle bushings allow the axle to twist under acceleration (axle wrap), exaggerating the squatting motion.

Related problems

Not sure which it is? Run the full AI diagnosis →