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Originally Posted On: How Do Car Suspension Systems Work?: A Quick Guide – The Beauty Of All-Wheel Drive

Did you know that the first suspension systems have been traced back to early Egyptian chariots and catapults?

The concept of using a system to diffuse energy from the road before it hits the passengers is not new. But how it works on modern cars is far more advanced than it once was.

Read on to learn more about car suspension systems, why they are important, and what you need to do to maintain them.

What is a Car Suspension System?

Your car’s suspension system consists of a series of springs, shocks,/dampeners. Their role is to allow the wheels to turn over uneven roads without shaking the frame or passengers.

The suspension system in cars diffuses/absorbs the energy created when you hit a bump in the road. It serves another critical role, which is to help you increase tire friction.

The more friction in a tire, the better it hugs or grips the road.It serves another important role, which is to help you increase tire friction.

The more friction in a tire, the better it hugs or grips the road. More importantly, without tire friction, your car wouldn’t move forward at all.

Are There Different Types of Car Suspension Systems?

The answer is yes. The average car has four tires and two axels. Each axel has its role in the car, and therefore its suspension system.

Front Suspension

For the front suspension, there is a dependent, independent, and double-wishbone suspension.

Dependent front suspensions haven’t been used in modern cars for years, but you may find them in older, vintage, or antique models.

The most common front suspension is the MacPherson strut. This suspension system and allows the wheels to move independently.

The double-wishbone suspension uses two wishbone-shaped arms to locate the wheel. Each wishbone has two mounting positions allowing for more flexibility. This type of suspension is standard in larger cars.

Rear Suspension

In reality, any suspension for the front axle can be used on the back axle. If both the front and rear suspension are independent, the car is said to have a “four-wheel independent suspension.”

The dependent rear suspension is standard in American-made cars for its essential simplicity. You can opt for leaves or coil springs in this suspension.

The independent rear suspension is just a simplified version of an independent front system that includes a steering rack.

What Maintenance is Needed on a Car Suspension System?

Your suspension system should be checked regularly as part of routine maintenance. Shocks and struts are replaced between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. check your owners manual for specifics on your car or truck

Usually, the suspension system visually checks when the tires are rotated or aligned. If it appears to be damaged, then it should be replaced.

If you notice your ride is becoming bumpier, your car has steering or breaking problems, or your tires show an uneven wear pattern, time to check the suspension system.

When looking for a garage, be sure to look at reviews and find one with an amazing customer service experience.

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We understand the importance of car suspension systems for everyday drivers and off-road aficionados alike.

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