What could be the reason for squeaking or rattling noises when driving over bumps?

Squeaking or rattling noises when driving over bumps are commonly associated with the suspension system of a vehicle. When the suspension components, such as struts, shocks, bushings, or control arms, wear out or become damaged, they can lose their ability to dampen the impact of the bumps in the road effectively. This results in the metal parts making contact in ways that they shouldn't, leading to the distinctive sounds.

In this context, suspension noises are typically characterized by rattling or squeaking, which indicates that the parts are either loose or are experiencing increased friction due to wear. For example, worn bushings can cause metal components to move against each other more freely, producing a noise. Therefore, when these noises arise while driving over uneven surfaces, it strongly suggests an issue within the suspension that needs to be inspected and addressed to ensure both safety and comfort.