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Vehicle suspension refers to the system of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels and allows relative motion between the two. But do you know why it’s so important? In this guide, we take a closer look at what your vehicle suspension does, how it works and why it’s important. There are also a few important FAQs you don’t want to overlook!
A well-functioning suspension system ensures a smooth ride, maintains wheel alignment, and facilitates precise steering. It also helps in reducing wear on tyres, providing you with a safe and comfortable driving experience.
The conventional or dependent suspension system, often found in older vehicles, connects the front and rear wheels on each side of the vehicle. As a result, movement on one wheel influences the opposite wheel.
The strut or MacPherson strut suspension system, most common in modern cars, combines the shock absorber and coil spring into one unit. It’s a simple and cost-effective system, which also reduces vehicle weight.
The multi-link suspension system, typically used in luxury and sport cars, allows for more independent movement of the wheels. This leads to better handling and ride quality, although it’s more complex and expensive to maintain.
An air suspension system uses air springs instead of traditional coil springs. The air springs provide a smooth ride and allow for adjustable ride height, often preferred for luxury and heavy load vehicles.
These components absorb and store energy, helping to cushion the vehicle from bumps and shocks. Moreover, car springs are instrumental in supporting the weight of the vehicle, ensuring it returns to its normal height after it has been compressed from road impact.
These dampen the energy stored in the springs, preventing your vehicle from bouncing uncontrollably after a bump. Put plainly, car shocks help to control the motion of the suspension system, providing stability and comfort for the driver.
These are used to maintain stability and reduce body roll during sharp turns. By keeping your vehicle level during manoeuvres, anti-sway bars can significantly enhance overall handling and provide a safer, more comfortable ride.
When you drive over an obstacle, like a speed bump or a pothole, the wheel moves upwards, causing the spring in the suspension system to compress. This compression allows the spring to absorb the energy from the impact, cushioning the vehicle and its occupants from the full force of the shock.
Once the energy is absorbed, the spring expands back to its original position. This reaction, however, can cause the vehicle to bounce. That’s where the shock absorbers come into play. The shock absorbers restrict the rebound movement of the springs, dissipating the stored energy in a controlled manner, preventing an excessive bouncing motion.
The anti-sway bars, another key component of the suspension system, play their part during cornering. When you take a turn, the vehicle’s body tends to lean or ‘roll’ to one side due to centrifugal force. The anti-sway bars counteract this force, reducing body roll and helping the vehicle maintain stability and balance.
Also Read: How Do You Balance Or Align Your Wheels?
Some signs include a rough ride, drifting or pulling during turns, uneven tyre treads, or your vehicle nosediving when braking. Always seek professional help when you notice these signs.
Vehicle suspension components, much like other parts of your car, have their own lifespan. While there is no set-in-stone timeframe, suspension parts can generally last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this lifespan can greatly vary depending on several factors.
Premium quality suspension components are designed for durability and can withstand the test of time better than their lower-quality counterparts.
If you frequently drive on rough roads or over potholes, your suspension system is likely to wear down faster. On the other hand, if your driving is primarily on smooth, paved surfaces, your suspension components may last longer.
As mentioned in the previous section, regular inspections and proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s suspension system. At the same time, neglecting these necessary checks and failing to replace worn-out components could shorten the lifespan significantly.
It’s essential to be attentive to any unusual signs such as uneven tyre wear, excessive bouncing, or swaying while turning, as these could signal a problem with your suspension system. If you notice these signs, it’s time to consult with a professional to ensure your vehicle remains safe and in good working order.
Recommended: Do I Need 2-Wheel or 4-Wheel Alignment?
Understanding your vehicle’s suspension system is more than just an exercise in automotive education. It’s an essential aspect of maintaining your vehicle effectively. By keeping a close eye on its performance and addressing any issues promptly, you can enjoy a smoother ride quality, better vehicle control and, ultimately, safer journeys.
Remember, the health of your vehicle suspension system directly influences your driving experience and the overall safety. Don’t let poor suspension turn your drive into a roller coaster ride!
We understand that vehicle maintenance can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to help. Please visit any of Elite Garages branches for a free wheel alignment check, where our skilled technicians will carry out a visual inspection of your vehicle suspension and components. Because at the end of the day, your safety is our priority.
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