How car suspensions work?

If you’ve noticed your car doesn’t quite handle bumps like it used to, your car suspension may be the cause. Car suspension systems play a vital role in ensuring a smooth and stable ride. Understanding how your suspension works can help you make informed decisions about car maintenance and repairs.  

What is a suspension system? 

A car’s suspension system is made up of a network of components connecting the wheels to the frame. The suspension system helps to absorb shocks from the road while keeping a large contact patch between the tires and the road. An effective suspension system will provide stability and safety by guaranteeing your car manoeuvres different road surfaces with ease. 

The suspension system has four main functions: 

1. Maximizing contact between the tires and road. 
2. Providing ease of handling and steering stability. 
3. Supporting the weight of the vehicle evenly. 
4. Absorbing and dampening shock for passenger comfort and safety. 

Key parts of a suspension system 

While a variety of suspension designs are available, most systems contain these essential parts: 

Springs are responsible for absorbing and dampening the impacts of uneven road surfaces. There are various springs used in vehicles including coil, leaf, and air springs. 

• Coil springs are most common. They compress and expand to absorb the force of road impacts. 
• Leaf springs are found in trucks and older vehicles. They use layered ribbons of metal to provide support and cushioning for heavier loads. 
• Air springs similarly support heavy-duty vehicles, but can also be found in luxury vehicles. They promise a softer ride using pressurized air. 

Shock absorbers prevent undue bouncing by working with the springs to control motion. Shock absorbers are standalone parts responsible for dampening movement and are commonly referred to as “shocks.” 

Control arms and struts maintain even structural support, contributing to holding the weight of a vehicle. All vehicles contain either control arms or struts that enforce vertical wheel movement. This is especially crucial during acceleration, braking, and turns. They also reduce vibrations and noise while allowing components to move freely. 

The stabilizer or “sway” bar prevents excessive leaning by ensuring both sides of the car’s suspension network stay balanced. 

Signs your suspension needs repair 

There are a few key signs that your car’s suspension needs attention, including these: 

• Rough, uneven, bumpy rides can suggest an issue with shock absorption. 
• Uneven tire wear indicates irregularity in the alignment and balance of your vehicle. 
• Excessive drifting to one side can mean a suspension alignment issue. 
• Visible oil leakage on shocks or struts suggest damaged seals and dampened motion. 
• A very bouncy ride can also signal a leaky shock. 

How to keep your suspension in good shape 

The following tips can help you avoid frequent repairs: 

1. Drive cautiously in rough road conditions: slow down for potholes or speedbumps. 
2. Have your wheels regularly aligned: misaligned wheels can cause premature wear on suspension system components. 
3. Check tire pressure and tire tread: properly inflated tires with enough tread can help your suspension to run smoothly. 
4. Listen and feel for abnormalities: any strange noises or unusual bumps, clunks, or knocking, especially on uneven road surfaces, could indicate an issue with your suspension. 
5. Routine shock absorber replacement: the general guideline is to replace your shock absorbers at 80,000 to 100,000 km. However, the actual interval will depend on your driving style and the recommendations in your owner’s manual. 

During a regular maintenance check, a certified NAPA AUTOPRO technician will inspect the suspension, note any faults, and recommend appropriate repairs if needed. 

Your suspension system is essential for a safe and smooth ride. If you’ve noticed any changes in your vehicle’s handling, get your suspension inspected during your next visit to a NAPA AUTOPRO shop.