What Is Suspension In a Car and How Does It Work?

Many different systems exist under the hood to ensure a vehicle functions properly. The suspension system ensures that the vehicle can handle bumps, dips, and anything else that’s encountered during a drive.

The suspension system is composed of several parts that all play a role in stabilizing and controlling a vehicle. Keep reading to find out how the suspension works and why it’s important to maintain.

What is Suspension In a Car?

Simply put, the suspension system of a car can be described as a protective framework made up of springs and shock-absorbing struts known as dampers.

The suspension mechanism in your vehicle’s system can absorb various impacts as well as ensure your steer remains stable. This function contributes towards ensuring a safe driving experience. In addition, the walk of the vehicle is facilitated applying more friction to the tires in counts to ensure that some of vehicle’s tires remain in contact with the road.

Car suspension can be compared to a type of a carriage on which a car cabin with is mounted on the main frame. Sitting on the suspension connected to wheels while cushioning make the passenger cabin a lot more comfortable.

The major components of a vehicle’s suspension are:

• Springs assist in controlling the height and load of the turn cabin and suspension.
• Shocks, or dampers, absorb and dampen the impacts of kinetic energy that your tires carry as they make contact with the surface of the road.

Your vehicle’s suspension system probably features an anti-sway bar. The anti-sway bar is helpful to some extent in controlling the movement of your wheels with respect to the steering wheel. It helps your vehicle maintain its heading while traversing the road.

Your car likely has a suspension system for both its front wheels and its back wheels. Suspension systems can be either independent or dependent:

On the other hand, when the movement of the wheels is restricted to the rotation of the axle, dependent suspension systems are applied.

Independent suspension systems are utilized when there is freedom of movement for the rear or front wheels with respect to the axle.

What Does a Car Suspension Do?

Suspension systems for cars are constructed with the primary aim of increasing the frictional contact between the wheels and the road surface. This increases the comfort of the ride while also maintaining good control and directional stability for the driver.

Because roads are imperfect, suspensions must be designed to support a vehicle.

Suspensions serve to absorb energy from the tires, allowing the vehicle’s body and frame to remain stable.

A car’s ride is defined as its ability to smooth out bumps on the road, whereas a car’s handling refers to how well it can be accelerated, cornered, or braked.

Understanding the principles of road isolation, road holding, and cornering will highlight why the suspension system is crucial.

• A vehicle’s seamless ability to pass over rough and bumpy terrain is termed as road isolation.
• Road holding is the principle stating that tires must remain in contact with the ground to steer, brake, and accelerate safely.
• Cornering refers to the vehicle’s ability to navigate a circular path while maintaining minimal body roll.

The suspension system includes all parts that assist in resolving the obstacles posed by the listed principles, and enabling a smooth ride.

Why is your car suspension so important?

Any modern car is equipped with a suspension due to its advantages. For example:

• With the help of suspension systems, the friction of your tire on the road surface is maximized. Maximizing friction is useful for steering your automobile because it makes it easier for you to maneuver more comfortably and enjoyable. The greater the contact area of the tires with the road, the greater the speed you can drive.
• Suspensions also offer additional comfort. Because bobbing and motion sickness caused by bumps on the road is greatly decreased, you and your passengers will enjoy a more pleasurable experience. This is due to the lower kinetic energy that is transferred to the cabin from the road.
• In addition, suspension systems can help increase the life and durability of your car. By reducing the amount of energy that is transferred from bumps and potholes on the road, your vehicle’s components are subjected to a lot less stress over time. Thus, the other components of your car will last longer.

Parts of a Suspension System and Their Functions

#1. Springs.

The suspension system is built around the springs that are fitted on the tires. They help maintain contact between tires and road and absorb shocks and bumps. The types of springs used on vehicles are coil springs and leaf springs.

#2. Shock Absorbers (Dampers).

As the names suggest, “shock absorbers“, or more simply “shocks“, are used in conjunction with springs to control the rebounding and oscillation of the springs. Shocks dismantle kinetic energy in a way that ensures a smooth and stable movement during the ride or drive.

#3. Struts.

Struts serve as the supporting structural members for the suspension system, while simultaneously serving many other functions. They support the weight of the vehicle, house the spring and shock absorber, and help maintain wheel alignment.

#4. Control Arms.

Control arms have a dual function; they serve as a framework that connects the wheels to the body or chassis of the vehicle. The arms also allow the wheel to move vertically, however controlling the sideways movement.

#5. Sway Bar (Stabilizer Bar).

Sway bars have the dual purpose of lessening body roll while turning. They connect suspension parts on both sides of the automobile; transferring force from one side to the other, helping to stablise the automobile.

#6. Bushings.

Small in size, but quite important are the mild damping components like bushings that have the task of dampening vibrations and noise. They reside in various parts of the suspension system including control arms together with sway bars.

#7. Ball Joints.

Ball Joints are responsible for allowing the movement and rotation of the suspension components. They attach the control arms to the steering knuckles and are important for assisting in the steering and control of the vehicle.

#8. Tie Rods.

Steering is mechanized through the use of tie rods, which serve as intermediaries between the wheels and the rest of the vehicle. These components have striking importance in the responsiveness of steering, and also for the alignment of the vehicle’s wheels.

How does a car suspension work?

Suspension works according to the principle of force dissipation which means removing the impact of the force by converting it into heat energy.

It can be achieved using springs, dampers, and struts. Energy is stored by springs and dampers release it in the form of heat energy.

With the wheels enhanced with a suspension, it is possible to maintain maximal friction with the road surface, while providing steering stability and accurate handling also ensuring passenger comfort.

If a road were perfectly flat, with no irregularities, suspensions wouldn’t be necessary. But roads are not flat. Even freshly paved highways have subtle imperfections that can interact with the wheels of a car.

Those imperfections come as active forces to the wheels. In accordance with Newton’s laws of motion, every force has a specific direction and magnitude. The bump of the road and the wheel moving intersect perpendicular with each other, causing movement on the wheel along the road surface up and down.

The magnitude in question pertains to whether the wheel is hitting a huge bump or a small speck. Either way, the car wheel undergoes a vertical acceleration when moving over an obstruction.

In the absence of a bottom structure, the wheel’s vertical outlook energy is completely given to the frame, which moves in the same direction relative to it. In this condition, the wheels can completely break contact with the ground.

In the absence of a bottom structure, the wheel’s vertical outlook energy is completely given to the frame, which moves in the same direction relative to it. In this condition, the wheels can completely break contact with the ground.

Thereafter, as a result of the gravitational pull, the wheels can violently hit the ground again.

What you need is a procedure that will allow the strolling energy of vertically displaced wheel to be managed, permitting the chassis and the hull to remain stationary while the wheels rotate to the uneven surface.

The forces acting on the body of a traveling car are referred to as vehicle dynamics. It is essential to know some parts of these forces to understand why there is a need to incorporate suspension in the first place.

Types of Car Suspensions

There are 8 Types of Car Suspensions as mentioned below:

• Multi-Link Suspension
• Rigid Axle Suspension
• Macpherson Suspension
• Double Wishbone Suspension
• Independent Suspension
• Rigid suspension
• Trailing Arm Suspension
• Air Suspension

#1. Multi-Link Suspension.

Multi-Link is a type of suspension that combines Double Wishbone and Multi-Link into one unit. Its construction design is fairly complicated since it consists of separate parts joined by individual components.

This type of suspension has ends that rotate on both sides of the arm. It is made by directing the force that will be applied to the wheel into a specific directional vector.

With Multi Link suspension, a vehicle has a better grip and easier control, thus improving handling. It also has numerous variations.

The Multi Link suspension has many variations, but if it is damaged, the time it takes for replacement is longer since the spare parts are limited and more expensive than other types of suspensions.

#2. Rigid Axle Suspension.

Typically mounted on the rear of a vehicle, Rigid Axle suspension has its unique features, which are the wheels on the rear left and right. Both wheels turn around a common axle which is known as the axle.

In either case, it concerns a dual model ‘rigid axle’ suspension system with the one version coming with a leaf spring and the other less popular, with a coil spring or commonly known as a rigid spring.

It is rigid because it can function as a single unit built from multiple components, including 2 springs, thus making it effective and relatively cheap to manufacture.

These suspensions are said to be axle rigid which means that the suspension system is strong enough to carry heavy loads. That makes them ideal for most types of large cars.

As you travel on a bumpy or rough road, the suspension system serves the purpose of absorbing shock for passengers riding in the vehicle. A properly suspension system fitted to the car makes sure that you remain seated without jerking around.

In addition to assisting in reducing vibration from the car while it is in motion, it also plays a great role in ensuring better handling by keeping the vehicle with stable equilibrium and steering balance on the roadway.

Due to having a lot of benefits from the suspension it is bolted in to the structure of the car making it a prime part that needs special attention maintain.

Around the world, people utilize various cars, and this enables us to use different types of suspensions. There is so much competition among car brands that quality suspensions are bound to change variations for every single brand.

Differentiating the type of suspension in each car brand is certainly a way to balance the type of car. There are, at the very least, a few types of suspension that most car manufacturers nowadays prefer and widely use.

#3. Macpherson Suspension.

As with other inventions, Macpherson is a suspension named after its inventor Earle Macpherson. Macpherson suspension is popular with cars all over the globe.

The Macpherson suspension system is widely available because its components are easy and cheap to manufacture. Most of the automotive brands manufactured prefer this type of suspension because of the low cost and simplicity.

The Macpherson suspensions are in an upright position or shape and are held by the shock-absorber serving as a centre point of the corner caster of the car. Because it is available everywhere, the Macpherson suspension system is very simple to get.

The main disadvantage of Macpherson’s suspension is that there is less resistance to incoming loads which also causes an adverse effect on turning a vehicle. Because of these factors, tires are unable to maintain a proper grip on the road asphalt.

#4. Double Wishbone Suspension.

The Double Wishbone consists of a set of two arms, “upper and lower arms suspension”. With this type of suspension system, the car operates smoothly.

#5. Independent suspension.

Independent suspension is a more sophisticated type of suspension in which the rear left and right-hand wheels are not mechanically connected but rather through axle joints.

When a car tire hits a bump, the car will not tilt to either side, and that is because only the left side suspension system is active. Independent suspension is mostly found in luxury cars.

A different design for the independent suspension system is that the axle movements of the wheel are reciprocally selective. Independent suspension also has two flexible couplings. This type of suspension is still relatively new, and so is its use primarily on expensive vehicles.

#6. Rigid Suspension – Leaf Spring.

Rigid – Leafspring is one of the suspension types that are common in cars in Indonesia and is mostly found in lower class or commercial vehicles and older cars. This kind of spring suspension is fitted into the back of the vehicle because it is quite rigid.

This suspension is rather straightforward with an uncomplicated diagram. This suspension system type usually comprises of an Axle Housing which is deliberately bonded with a U-Bolt mounted on the frame. Vehicles equipped with this type of suspension system possess a relatively significant level of stiffness.

#7. Trailing Arm Suspension.

Trailing Arm is a type of suspension whose guide is virtually identical to 3 Links – Rigid, but whose operational mechanism is entirely different. It operates differently than the 3 Links – Rigid and other types of suspension.

The Two Links – Rigid are assembled and disassembled by joining the left side to the right hand side which form a loop. This system type of suspension is usually located at the rear part of the vehicle.

#8. Air Suspension.

Air Suspension is a modern kind of suspension with high functionality, which is why it is preferred for high-end cars.

Even the sophisticated vehicles have their suspension adjustable through a computer, ensuring precision in adjustment for optimal functionality.

However, in comparison with other types of suspension, this type has a higher level of complexity in construction. Additionally, this type of suspension is also very expensive.

How can I tell if my car has suspension problems?

Different parts of the suspension system can wear out or become damaged. It’s important to pay attention to potential signs that a part needs to be repaired or replaced. Some common signs of suspension damage include:

#1. Pulling to one side when driving.

A common indication is traction control malfunctions or issues with car shocks and brakes.
A little research is required first. The problem could lie in something as easy as forgetting to inflate a tire, therefore check the pressure first.

Poor alignment is a source of concern and may need the attention of a technician. If you have not had a tire rotation in a while, readjusting the tires may resolve the issue.

Outcomes based on ignorance have not always demanded suspicion; try paying attention to signs of damage on the shock absorbers, which are evident. It is always recommended to consult a professional before dealing with further damage.

#2. Bumpy rides are more common.

If you find the cruising along flat scenic and country roads like in a World Rally qualifying event, take note. Noticing every little bump means that your vehicles shocks or struts are failing.

Perform a bounce test to check. For this test, apply your entire weight on the bonnet of the car. Count the bounces it does after you release it or take your hands off of it. Anything more than three times indicates a likely problem with either your shock absorbers or struts.

#3. One corner sits lower than the others.

Hearing a clunking sound during a bumpy drive can be an indication that one corner of the suspension is lower than the rest, which means a spring could be damaged.

As the final confirmation, ensure all of the tires are equally inflated. If one corner is still lower than the rest, then try to push down on the corner of the boot.

Creaking or squeaking noises indicate that your suspension is overly stretched and requires repairs from a technician.

#4. Diving, rolling, or squatting.

If you experience your car diving forward on braking, leaning or rolling onto sideways when cornering or squatting backward when accelerating, make sure to take your vehicle to the garage.

In addition to creating an unpleasant experience, these issues could also lengthen your stopping distance, which can be extremely hazardous.

#5. Difficulty with steering.

Is your car hard to steer even for low speeds? If so, it indicates low performance from you suspension system or a malfunction of the steering system. One possible solution would be to top up your power steering fluid. Other possible causes include worn or loose belts and damaged control arm bushings.

You should also be on the lookout for any belt squeals since these could indicate an issue with your power steering pump. For apparent reasons, driving a vehicle with faulty steering poses a substantial risk, so ensure the work gets done at a workshop promptly.

#6. Oily shock absorbers.

In their normal state, the shock absorbers should be dry. In the case they appear greasy or oily, it is best to have an expert examine the vehicle as there could potentially be a leak that, if untreated, would cause severe damage to a vehicle.

Replacing The Suspension

Replacing the suspension can take up to a day, but how does one know when something goes wrong? Some common signs that should make you take your car for repairs include:

• Rough rides. Every driver knows the feeling of driving a car. Poor suspensions will make steering, turning, and braking far more difficult than they need to be. You will feel every little bump on the road.
• Drifting during turns. This is a major issue since a car that drifts while turning is incredibly unsafe. You will experience the ‘floaty’ feeling in turns. This is a clear indication that the shocks are not functioning properly.
• Uneven tire treads. Normally, the tread wear on a tire should be even. With a broken suspension, one side will have lesser treads than the other side.

Repair expenses are determined by the symptoms observed, like rattling noises, shocks hitting too hard, or reduced ground clearance.

Suspension consists of many parts, with an average check amounting between $1000-$5000. Bear in mind, you will also need to account some of the more expensive replacements and actions required.

• Replacement of shock absorber: $200-$1500
• Replacement of coil spring: $550-$700
• Replacement of strut: $50-$900
• Alignment of wheel: $20-$400

One of the many significant parts that make your car safe to ride in is the car suspension system. Without suspensions, vehicles would be categorized as bumpy at best, and dangerous to have on the road at worst.

Keep your auto suspension system functional: have a certified mechanic inspect your vehicle frequently. If you experience too much bumpiness while riding, we advise taking the car for auto suspension service because we suspect the suspension could be wearing down.

FAQs.