Your car’s suspension is a set of mechanical connections, dampers, and springs that connect the wheels to the chassis. It absorbs energy from the tires so the body and frame of your car can remain stable while driving. A car’s suspension system affects its handling, braking performance, and ride quality. Some car suspension types include rigid axle, multi-link, MacPherson, and trailing arm.

Here are the parts of the car suspension.

Springs

The springs of your suspension are designed to absorb or dampen impacts from potholes and speed breakers. They also improve traction, helping ensure a smooth, bump-free ride. Some common suspension springs include coil springs, torsion bar springs, leaf springs, and lowering springs.

Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers work with springs to reduce impacts from poor driving surfaces. They support the springs by reducing their movement and oscillation. Shock absorbers contain a thick liquid known as shock absorber oil. If this liquid spills, it could damage suspension components.

Wheels and Tires

The wheels and tires of a car are the external components of its suspension. The tires are the only suspension component that touches the ground when the car moves. When you hit a pothole or a speed breaker, your tires are most punished. Irresponsible cornering and braking can affect the performance of your tires and cause premature deterioration.

Rods/Linkages

Rods or metal linkages connect different suspension components. They are pretty solid and durable and, in most cases, must be replaced only when the vehicle sustains damage in a collision.

Bushings

Suspension bushings connect the metal linkages to the rest of the suspension parts. They also allow sliding and twisting actions necessary for the suspension to work properly. Unfortunately, rubber suspension bushings tend to wear out quickly, causing the joints to get too loose.

Frame

The frame is the biggest suspension component. A car’s frame is its main supporting structure to which all other elements are attached. It provides structural support and absorbs shock from uneven terrain while driving. Your car’s frame is an essential load-bearing component.

Strut Bar

Connecting your suspension system’s strut bar reduces stress on your strut towers. It also helps reduce chassis flex, keeping your car stable. In addition, strut bars can improve the ride quality of older vehicles prone to body roll and chassis flux issues.

Tips to Maintain Your Suspension

Suspension problems can affect vehicle safety and handling. Suspension repairs are some of the costliest car repairs. Depending on the part to be repaired, you can spend $500 to $5,000 or more.

Follow these tips to maintain your suspension and prevent suspension problems.

• Maintain proper tire pressure.
• Make sure your wheels are aligned.
• Periodically inspect the struts and make sure they aren’t leaking hydraulic fluid.
• Maintain your power steering system.

GreenTech Automotive specializes in car suspension replacement in Sonoma County. Our mechanics have years of experience repairing and maintaining different types of cars. To learn more, call (707) 545-7076.