Types of Car Suspension
The automotive industry has undergone tremendous changes over the years. However, when it comes to the underneath of your vehicle, it’s pretty easy to not pay attention. But like most things, your suspension is a lot more important than it’s given credit for. It not only makes your ride more comfortable, but also assures the braking system and road handling of your automobile. There are different types of car suspension, often determined by the model of the car or the taste of the consumer.
Types of Car Suspension
This guide highlights the parts of a suspension system and the different types of suspension systems. Though these systems are different in design, they essentially perform the same function.
Dependent Suspension System
A dependent suspension system has a solid axle that goes across the width of the car’s frame. It connects the wheels on both the right and left side of the vehicle so the driver can operate them as a team. As such, both sides of the car are dependent, which means if one side bends to a given direction, the other side will follow along. This type of suspension system is ideal for rough terrain as they can handle tough conditions.
Independent Suspension System
Independent suspension systems don’t have a single connecting axle. Each wheel of an independent suspension system reacts differently to different road conditions, meaning a bump on one side won’t cause a reaction on the other side. The independent suspension system is preferred for the driving quality and comfort it affords.
Varieties of Independent Suspension System
Independent suspension systems come in a wide range of varieties. A rear independent suspension system permits external drive shafts and utilizes the McPherson strut. The rear wheel independent suspension has external drive shafts that will transmit the drive to each wheel and incorporates a drive shaft fixed to the vehicle frame. Today’s modern cars have various suspension systems that add to better driving ability. For instance, the adaptive air suspension has an adaptive damping system and an electronically controlled suspension system for all the wheels of the car.
Mechanisms Used in Suspension System
Different suspension systems work in different ways. The double wishbone, for example, is two shaped metal pieces on top of each other. They provide stability to the car and are found at the car’s front end. They also have a spring coil and shock absorber that absorb vertical vibrations. The double wishbone reduces roll, allowing for better steering. The McPherson strut suspension system is connected to both the front and rear of the cars and will be attached to the wheel hub with a tubular strut.
Bottom Line
The suspension system is responsible for linking the body of the car to the running gears (brakes, wheels, tires) and consists of shock absorbers, various springs and related hardware. The primary function of the suspension system is to support the weight of the vehicle, provide a pivot point for wheels and absorb shock. Understanding the different types of car suspension whether it be air suspension, lowering or lift suspension or something different, helps you better understand the inner workings of your vehicle.
