Automotive Suspensions are the parts that connect your wheels to your vehicle’s chassis, and they work together to protect your car from shocks. Suspension systems are critical to the safety and performance of your vehicle. They provide your wheels with the stability and support they need to drive smoothly over rough roads. A suspension is also an important part of your car’s braking, handling and traction control systems.
The system is made up of the tires, tire air, springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connect the vehicle to its wheels. It is designed to smooth out your ride and keep you on the road safely, but it can also lead to serious accidents if it isn’t working properly.
It is important for a car technician or a car owner to understand the basics of automotive suspension. For example, knowing the types of suspension setups and their maintenance requirements can help you decide when it’s time to update your current system.
Africa Automotive March-April digital issue 2023
There are a number of different types of car suspensions, each with its own unique functions and strengths. Understanding the different types of car suspensions can help you identify issues with your vehicle’s suspension, and make the necessary repairs.
Types of Automotive Suspensions
Independent
The independent suspension system is a step up from the dependant system. Unlike the dependant type, this kind of suspension provides each wheel with its own springs and shock absorbers without the need for an axle connecting it to the other wheel. This means that a road dent only affects one wheel, and not the other.
Rigid Axle
The rigid axle suspension is the most basic type of suspension. It is fitted with a rear wheel that is connected to a single axle and usually features leaf springs.
Shock Absorbers and Struts
Shock absorbers (also known as dampers) convert the kinetic energy stored in the springs into heat energy that is dissipated. The absorbed kinetic energy helps to improve the ride quality of the vehicle. Most shock absorbers have two sections: the outer tube, which is connected to the vehicle’s frame; and the reserve tube, which is bolted to the axle, or structure that carries the suspension system. The outer tube contains a piston that looks like a plunger. The piston moves downward into a reservoir filled with hydraulic fluid as the spring compresses. The damper then releases the spring’s energy in a controlled way, dissipating the spring’s pressure and preventing the car from bouncing. The force the damper produces depends on how fast the spring is compressed or elongated, and the compression limit is the distance that the suspension can be compressed without producing an uncontrolled bounce.
These are a key part of the suspension, as they help to keep your vehicle safe and smooth, as well as to reduce wear on tires and other parts. It is important that your shock absorbers are not damaged, or you may risk a serious crash.
Trailing Arm
The trailing arm suspension is a common design for rear-wheel drive cars and can be found on some motorcycles. This type of suspension consists of a steel arm that is pivoted to the car’s chassis and is joined to a damper.
Coil Springs
A coil-spring suspension uses a coil spring to support the body of the vehicle and the tires. They come in either linear or progressive rate designs, depending on the coil spacing and the spring wire diameter. Linear rate springs typically have evenly spaced coils and are more commonly used in cars. A progressive rate spring is one that has more coils closer together than the ones on a linear-rate design.
MacPherson Shock Absorber
The MacPherson strut was designed by Earle S. McPherson, and it is the most common type of independent suspension used in modern cars. This design is a step up from the double-wishbone suspension, but it is more complicated to manufacture and requires higher strut mounts.
Torsion Bars
The torsion bar is another popular type of suspension design. Its twisting properties provide coil-spring-like performance. These bars are attached to the frame of a vehicle and attach to a wishbone, which acts as a lever that transfers vertical motion from the wheels to the torsion bar.
Anti-Roll Bar
The anti-roll bar, also known as an anti-sway bar, is a metal bar that connects the left and right side of your vehicle’s suspension. A sway bar is another key element of your vehicle’s suspension. They highly contribute in giving your vehicle extra stability when it is moving at high speeds and at the same time preventing the car from rolling off while taking a turn, hence they are very important for the safety of you and other passengers.
Ford Model T
A good example of a popular suspension system is the Ford Model T, which was built to handle rough roads. The front suspension on the Model T incorporated a wishbone-shaped radius rod with a ball attached to it. This was replaced with a split wishbone design after World War II. It lowered the front axle about an inch and improved handling.
Maintenance requirements for automotive suspension
Failure of one or more vital suspension components will alter your vehicles handling and may accelerate wear on other suspension parts. Regular checks and maintenance will save you costly repairs. Taking proper care of your suspension system will guaranty safety and the best possible handling performance for your vehicle; this is according to Brian Gow, Workshop Manager at Romageco Kenya Ltd.
“Worn suspension components will have an adverse effect on vehicle stability which compromises safety and driver control. Replacing worn parts will help maintain correct vehicle ride height and wheel alignment. It will also reduce the effect of shock forces when driving on or off road, support vehicle weight (whether laden or unladen), keep the wheels in contact with the road and ultimately control the vehicle’s direction of travel.” adds Brian.
“It is a well-known fact that, automotive vehicle tires only last for a certain period and/or kilometers of the vehicle’s life and they are very expensive to replace,” says Jan van Niekerk – Operational Director at PSB – Problem Solving Bushings. “One of the highest determining factors to the unnecessary deterioration of tires is that of warn or damaged suspension parts and rubbers,” utters Jan.
“Over the past few years as everything in the automotive industry evolved and it is needless to say, so did all vehicles’ suspensions. Suspensions are becoming more sophisticated for several reasons such as safety, the ride comfort, as well as specific applications in the off-road terrain markets. Most vehicles are designed and manufactured to operate in perfect smooth tar road conditions. Unfortunately, these perfect road conditions are few and far between in our lives. We live with badly maintained roads in many places with damage to the road surfaces and even potholes, then there is also traveling long distances on gravel roads,” he adds.
Jan van Niekerk further points out the factors that contribute to warn or damaged automotive suspension and or rubbers is (not exclusive to)
a. Time (General wear and tear).
b. Potholes.
c. Gravel Roads.
d. Overloading.
e. Traffic calming devices on roads (speed humps).
f. Hazards on the roads such as lost loads and parts falling from vehicles onto the road surfaces.
“All this causing an uncomfortable ride experience, tire wear and the unwanted unsafe driving conditions of the vehicle. As there is no prescribed maintenance specification in general for automotive suspensions, it is normally a “fix when broken” mentality,” Jan perceived.
“We would strongly advise that you ask for a suspension check whenever you do you vehicles scheduled maintenance and/or wheel alignment checks. Most manufacturers require regular wheel alignment and balancing check for the warrantee purposes, this is normally in the region of every 10 000 – 20 000 kilometers driven or annually. Here they will check and replace warn suspension parts and rubber suspension parts. Polyurethane replacement parts are recommended as it has a much longer life span as opposed to that of the rubber replacement. There is also no disadvantage replacing with polyurethane suspension bushings,” concludes Jan.
Martin Hendriksen, VP Sales & Business Development – Africa, Middle East, India, Australia at Nexus Automotive International and head of the IAMaga regional structure is assertive to the following suggestions being fundamental in the provision of the correct maintenance for automotive suspension:
- Immediate access by the driver / owner / technician to the correct (OE quality, non-counterfeit) part at the right price
- A properly skilled and trained technician to perform the diagnosis and repair
- Adequate facilities at which to undertake the task
“It is necessary to mention that some procedures connected with suspension repair are highly dependent on special tools and manuals that are commonly available only for certified garages. If such repairs are done not properly it may lead to the risk of road accident and possible risk for life. So, it definitely makes sense to delegate suspension issues to the real professionals with proper skills and tools,” Martin emphasizes.
In answer to the above requirements, IAMaga, a dedicated entity inside Nexus Automotive International, offers the following to aftermarket actors in Africa:
a) Access to the Nexus training academy
b) Supply from nearly 100 of the most credible global aftermarket manufacturers
c) The biggest regional support network
d) Connection to major garage networks
e) Improved commercial conditions when buying from Nexus contracted suppliers.
Łukasz Skowronek Brand Manager Quaro-Parts.com also affirms that automotive suspension systems are responsible for ensuring a comfortable and safe ride for drivers and passengers. Regular maintenance of the suspension system can help prevent wear and tear and prolong the life of your vehicle. Łukasz supplementary goes on and elaborates on some of maintenance requirements for automotive suspension:
1. Regular inspections: A visual inspection of the suspension system should be performed regularly. Look for any signs of wear, damage, leaks and cracks. Check the shocks, and springs for signs of damage or wear. Very important is good conditions with rubber in suspension elements. Rubber absorbs every shakes from the road.
Justin Stone, a Product Specialist at Grandmark is in agreement with the regular suspension inspection “Inspect the suspension system periodically to ensure that all components are in good condition. Look for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion on the shocks, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, and other parts.”
2. Wheel alignment: “Check the wheel alignment regularly to ensure that the wheels are properly aligned. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, handling problems, and other issues,” says Justin.
On the same note Łukasz insists on regular wheel alignment as it can help prevent uneven tire wear and ensure that the suspension system is functioning correctly. “If you notice that your vehicle is pulling to one side or the other, it may be time for a wheel alignment,” he adds.
3. Tire balance: Tire balance is critical to maintaining a smooth ride and preventing uneven tire wear. If you notice vibration or shaking while driving, it may be time to have your tires balanced.
4. Shock absorbers: According to Łukasz, shock absorbers are critical components of the suspension system. They help absorb shocks and vibrations, providing a smoother ride. If you notice excessive bouncing or bouncing after hitting bumps, it may be time to replace your shock absorbers or struts. Very important, ensure there are no leaks.
“Replace worn or damaged shock absorbers and struts. These components play a vital role in the suspension system, and worn or damaged units can cause handling problems and reduce stability,” adds Justin.
5. Springs: “Check the springs for damage or wear. Broken or worn springs can cause the vehicle to sag, which can affect handling and stability,” advises Justin.
“Springs help support the weight of the vehicle and absorb shocks. If you notice that your vehicle is sagging or bottoming out, it may be time to replace your springs. Springs are exposed for cracks,” enhances Łukasz.
6. Control arms, Bushings and ball joints: Łukasz is keen on bushings and ball joints as they help connect the suspension components and allow swift movement. If these components are worn or damaged, they can cause handling issues and reduce ride comfort.
As Justin Counsels, “Check the control arms and ball joints for wear or damage. Worn or damaged components can affect steering, handling, and stability. Check the bushings for wear or damage. Worn or damaged bushings can cause handling problems and reduce stability.”
Additionally, Justin endorses the following suspension maintenance recommendations;
Tire pressure: Keep the tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires can affect the handling and stability of the vehicle.
Lubrication: Lubricate the suspension system components periodically to prevent rust and corrosion.
Driving habits: Drive carefully and avoid rough roads or harsh driving conditions. Aggressive driving can cause excessive wear and tear on the suspension system.
Service manual: Refer to the service manual for specific maintenance requirements for your vehicle’s suspension system. The manual will provide information on when to inspect and replace various components.
Bottom line
There are many different types of suspension systems, and each is designed for a specific purpose. Some popular options include; computer active technology (CATS), which co-ordinates the best possible balance between ride quality and handling; and air suspension, which replaces traditional steel, coil springs with air. In addition to the mentioned suspensions types and their maintenance recommendations, they are also made up of a variety of other parts, such as rods/linkages and bearings. These parts work in union to provide additional support to the suspension systems and prevent them from breaking or wearing down.
However, if you notice any signs of wear or damage to your suspension, it is best to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further complications or fatal accidents. Contact a professional mechanic near you for repair or upgrade of your suspension system or parts.
