Is this normal? (suspension Q)

[KSXNSX]

When I drive over a rough area of road (e.g. a pothole or a series of bumps/rough surface irregularities) I can feel the suspension lift up as if it is not pushing down on the ground; my steering gets VERY heavy almost to the point of locking up; you can hear something rattling in the suspension. Everything returns to normal after 1 or 2 s when you get back on regular asphault, and besides the time you spend on the jarring road, everything is nominal. Is that normal for all cars?

I've noticed it several times in the NSX, and even once in another car, but it is more severe in the NSX. I thought it may just be since the NSX suspension is stiffer, it may be that it is more prone to surface irregularity disruption.

 

[MvM]

Although I am not exactly sure what you mean by 'I can feel the suspension lift up as if it is not pushing down on the ground', I am VERY sure this is not normal.
First question is, of course, if you suspension is OEM and if you car has been lowered. If it has been lowered or if you have any aftermarket suspension parts like swaybars, are all components able to move freely ??

 

[L8apex32]

If I was the first to reply, I'd have said, Yep, totally normal. All NSXes are very difficult to steer on bumpy roads - which is why we never drive over any bumps. Just kidding, of course.

I'm not sure what to suggest, based on the description given so far. However, it is likely that a mechanic of any reasonable skill will be able to help you with the problem. If I were to start on this, I might check the shocks and make sure they aren't stuck or sticking. (How many miles on the shocks?) I'd also check the alignment and for any bent or loose suspension components (low a-arm, upper a-arm, shock mounts, spring perch, wheel bearing). All this stuff is fairly easy to check. Also, check the steering rack - make sure its mounted and working correctly. Finally, check sway bars for correct mounting and movement.

Do you have any modified suspension components on the vehicle - that may be failing or installed improperly?

As for a few test cases, can you drive in circles at full lock, in both directions with no problems? Can you drive in reverse at full lock in both directions? When you brake (forwards and backwards) while turning, does this cause any clunks or noises? You could test going up driveway curbs at various turning angles, one wheel at a time to try and help narrow it down.

Let us know if you get any more info or have anything else to describe the noises/behavior.