Dear Doctor: I’m the original owner of a 2002 Hyundai Elantra with 52,000 miles. I don’t feel like I’m getting a smooth ride. It seems the car is picking up every little blemish on the road. Even when I shift out of drive and coast I feel this problem, but I wouldn’t describe it as a vibration. It just feels a little “bouncy.” What is the problem? Ted
Dear Ted: I see a lot of these kinds of drivability complaints. I begin with a road test to confirm the condition. Next, I check tire pressure and tire size. I see a lot of worn outer sway bar links and inner bushings when equipped on a variety of vehicles. Worn upper strut mounts, worn struts and lower control arm ball joints and bushings also contribute to a bumpy feeling. This car does have a firm ride and there is not a lot of suspension isolation, so the car may never give you the smooth feeling you are looking for.