Why Your Suspension System Matters
Author: Brent Axel Francisco
What is a Car Suspension System
Suspension System is a broader assembly of components, including springs, control arms, and other parts, that connect the vehicle’s wheels to its frame and absorb shocks from the road. These are responsible for impact as you drive on uneven surfaces reducing vibration and motion while driving on the road, making a smooth, comfortable, and control on the road.
Role of Suspension System?
It is designed to ensure stability and good handling when riding your vehicle on the road. It helps maximize the amount of friction between the tires and the road. This would be best if you strive to have good suspensions to minimize the chances of being involved in an accident. For instance, the suspensions affect your car’s braking system, which plays a role in control and stability. A good system will ensure your safety and save the costs incurred on the maintenance of the car.
Key Components
Linkages/Rods
From the word itself “link”, These are like a frame of suspension system that connects all the parts together to hold it. It has universal joints on their both ends which help in smooth connection between different components. There are 3 general types of linkages, one is the A-arm. It is a A shape and on top of it, it is attached to knuckle that is mounted on a wheel hub. Another one is the Solid axle or live axle. It connects to the main body of a vehicle with the knuckle of the tire. It is attached to on these linkages, and it is commonly used for heavy duty vehicles. Lastly is the Multiples links, in these multiple small linkages are used in place of wishbone arm and solid axle. By the help of these multiple links knuckle, frame and suspension system are connected.
Joints
Joints are responsible for the flexibility of a car when it is moving. Ball joints allow the suspension components to pivot and move. They connect the control arms to the steering knuckles and are essential for steering and control
Springs
Springs are responsible for absorbing any impact on the tires while driving, it helps you more comfortable while being inside the car. In some model vehicles, they use metal rods instead of springs to do this. But in most vehicles, there are springs which bend upon impact. Springs support the weight of the vehicle and absorb the initial impact of bumps and irregularities on the road.
Control Arms
Control arms are responsible for enabling the wheels to move up and down while controlling their lateral movement. This ensures that the wheels remain aligned and in proper contact with the road surface, even when driving over bumps or during cornering.
Stabilizer
Stabilizers are responsible for reducing the chance of rolling of body during cornering by stabilizing the left and right side of the suspension. It ensures better handling and comfort for the driver and passengers. While the stabilizer bar is crucial, it works in harmony with other suspension components like springs, shock absorbers, and control arms to deliver optimal stability and comfort.
Types of Suspension System:
The suspension system is a critical component of any vehicle, ensuring stability, comfort, and safety. Its primary function is to absorb shocks from uneven road surfaces, maintain proper contact between the tires and the road, and provide a smooth driving experience. Depending on the design, suspension systems are classified into two major categories: Independent Suspension Systems and Dependent Suspension Systems.
Independent Suspension System
This system means that the suspension is set-up in such a way that allows the wheel on the left and right side of the vehicle to move vertically independent up and down while driving on the uneven surface. A force acting on the single wheel does not affect the other as there is no mechanical linkage present between the two hubs of the same vehicle.
Dependent Suspension System
In Dependent Suspension there is a rigid linkage between the two wheels of the same axle. A force acting on one wheel will affect the opposite wheel. For each motion of the wheel caused by road, irregularities affect the coupled wheel as well.
Why does it matter?
The suspension system is one of the most essential yet often overlooked components of a vehicle. It plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth, safe, and efficient driving experience by addressing multiple aspects of vehicle performance. Here’s why your car’s suspension system matters:
– Enhancing Comfort
– Improving Safety
– Prolonging Vehicle Lifespan
REFERENCES:
Admin. (2022, February 2). Suspension System Types & Components [Complete Guide] – Engineering Learn. Engineering Learn. https://engineeringlearn.com/suspension-system-types-components/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHu_btleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVAvqtEjPIf-zzhv3JyEciPv5eYc8oufcMn7Ac53a896JsA6BtxM3QMWug_aem_wYgk7IrYLgtXpdHz4qSz9g#google_vignette
Kevin. (2023, August 1). 7 parts of a car suspension system (and their functions). Oards Automotive. https://oards.com/car-suspension-parts/#:~:text=Suspension%20System%20Components%201%201%29%20Springs%20Coil%20springs,6%29%20Steering%20System%20. . .%207%207%29%20Frame%20
Mechanic Scout. (2021, March 9). What is car suspension? (How it works explained). https://www.mechanicscout.com/what-is-car-suspension/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHu_0RleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHexZoQP0bQkDq0k9hZPMlFDt3gd6u4Is9d_4hw1sOZUwawukwrK1moGCnA_aem_0NM4EhYsLbukXz4pOnjbmA
Sabhadiya, S. (2024, August 15). What is suspension in a car and how does it work? The Engineering Choice. https://www.theengineeringchoice.com/what-is-suspension-in-a-car-and-how-does-it-work/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHu_3xleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHUdCyeu7MIyYCfmnYWQCFGQ7A9jwtGGeZR_j65Ign3-5iI9mGfyI2PWrtg_aem_-8p-43pHOB5SeVuk7GgVJQ
Thorat, S. (2020, February 19). Suspension System | Components , types , working principles. Mechanical Engineering blog. https://learnmech.com/suspension-system-components-types-working-principles/