How to Fix Annoying Leaf Spring Squeaks
About a year ago, I decided to upgrade my leaf springs to the Icon RXT pack for my Toyota Tacoma. From reading reviews, I knew that it would be a matter of time before they started to squeak and as it turns out, they started squeaking just about a month of owning them. After trying a ton of different options and fixes, I’ve finally discovered some of the best ways to reduce or even eliminate that pesky leaf spring squeak so you can get back to having a smooth, quiet ride.
Lubricate them
The first step you can try to do to get rid of those leaf spring squeaks is lubricating the bushings and in-between the springs. It’s important to get the right kind of lubricant depending on the type of bushings you have. Since most bushings are rubber, I recommend NOT using WD-40 as it may lead to them drying out and cracking which will make the problem worse.
I personally have used Fluid Film in the past and it works great, but the only downside is that it can attract dust and dirt which can lead to more squeaking. I also recently used PB Blaster Silicone on the bushings and leaf springs and have found that it works great and doesn’t attract dust or grime but I do have to reapply it more often.
Check the torque
Another simple fix that I’ve found on my leaf springs is to check the torque on all of the bushings and u-bolts. Depending on the vehicle you drive, the torque specs are different so I would suggest looking at the owners manual or on Google to find the proper torque spec. For the Toyota Tacoma, the torque spec is 89ft-lbs on the bushings and 73ft-lbs for the u-bolts (stock ones anyway). After checking each bushing bolts and the u-bolts with a good torque wrench, I found out that they had loosened up a bit and after tightening them, the squeak went away for a bit.
It’s always useful to regularly check your torque specs on suspension components, especially if you find yourself offroading, so that you aren’t putting unnecessary strain on the vehicle and that it’s also safe to drive.
Line your leaf springs
If you’re sure that the squeaking noise isn’t coming from the bushings but instead coming from where the leaf springs are making contact with each other, you can always add leaf spring liners or anti-friction pads.
Companies, like Speedway Motors, make liners that go in-between each leaf spring that eliminates the metal springs rubbing together to give you that squeak/creaking sound. You will want to measure the width of your leaf springs and purchase the right ones or you may have to trim the edges that stick out if you purchase them too wide. If you want to do it for even cheaper, you can also cut up a bike tire inner tube instead of the liners.
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You can also purchase anti-friction pads that either bolt or stick to the ends of each leaf spring so the ends aren’t making contact when the leaf springs articulate.
For both of these options, you will have to remove the leaf spring packs from your vehicle and separate the leaf springs so ensure you have the proper tools to do so as it can be dangerous if you aren’t sure of what you’re doing or you can find a trusted shop to do it.
Replace your bushings
If all else fails and you’re sure the squeak is coming from the bushings you can always replace the bushings with aftermarket or OEM. Bushings do get worn down so the squeak could just be from worn bushings and the other options above are just a band-aid fix until they inevitably give out.
There are a ton of options to choose from such as OEM replacements, rubber, and polyurethane depending on your intended use.
Replace your leaf springs
Finally, if the other options did not work it may just be time to replace your leaf springs. Leaf springs, like all suspension components, have a limited lifespan as they are the thing that probably sees the most action within your vehicle.
If you just intend to use your vehicle for daily commuting it may just be best to go with OEM replacement springs but if you want to use it for towing, offroading, or anything else there are a lot of different aftermarket options out there to fit your needs. Some of my favorite leaf spring brands are Dobinsons, Old Man Emu, and Deaver Springs for the Toyota Tacoma (but they also supply leaf springs for many other vehicles.