The car is, nowadays, an asset without which people could not carry out many of their daily activities. Considering the fact that it is indispensable for many tasks, it is important to know some technical details that will allow you to maintain it properly and reduce premature wear, and this information includes those about the suspension system.
Content:
- The suspension system - what is it and what is the role of the suspension?
- Types of suspension - what are they?
- When should the car's suspension system be checked?
1. The suspension system - what is it and what is the role of the suspension?
The suspension system is one of the most important components of a car, as it connects the body to the wheels. It also allows passengers to move without discomfort, but also protects important parts against shocks.
The suspension system of the automobile fulfills two essential functions, namely:
- keeps the body high on the ground, which protects the car from wear and tear, shocks created by different types of road;
- protects important car components.
Currently, developers are creating more and more efficient systems that reduce shocks not only to protect the car from impact with the ground, but also for the increased comfort of passengers. Depending on the system chosen, road conditions and traffic needs, the shocks can be felt more or less, but all current systems offer increasing comfort, unlike the old models. With a good, well-maintained suspension, drivers can enjoy their car more and have a much more enjoyable driving experience.
Moreover, the role of the suspension is a crucial one, of stabilization. Although the wheels represent the contact surface with the ground, the shocks transmitted to the entire car are responsible for the car's stability. Thus, the suspension system, being designed to reduce them, is also responsible for stabilizing the car while driving.
2. Types of suspension - what are they?
When it comes to suspension types, there are five categories of car suspension, namely magnetic, mechanical, hydraulic, hydropneumatic and pneumatic. Each system has its differences, and if you are going to buy a new car it is advisable to inform yourself about each one in order to choose the best option according to your needs.
Mechanical suspension
It is created from components designed to reduce shocks and gives the car a smooth and safe movement in traffic. Springs, for example, are used to support more types of road, as they will help the body to take the shape of the road without discomfort or changes to the body. Shock absorbers are also important, especially for the type of rough road. Being filled with air, oil or gas, they have the role of reducing the shocks of such a road and reduce the level of damage over time. Stabilizers are essential for the safety of the car in traffic because they give the car stability during cornering, even on rough road types.
Magnetic suspension
This type of suspension works on the basis of a special liquid, present in servomotors. Magnetic suspension has the same role as mechanical suspension, to provide stability and reduce shocks for both comfort and damage reduction. This type of modern suspension is preferred because it offers a high level of safety and comfort. However, it should be noted that the response of the system can be slower because for rough road types a larger amount of fluid has to be released, which means that the reaction and adaptation to the road, in rough conditions, could require a few seconds in addition.
Hydraulic suspension
The hydraulic suspension differs from other systems, as it can be adjusted on the fly, depending on the road and traffic needs for increased safety and the best possible communication between the body and the wheels. To adjust the suspension, a pump is used that introduces the necessary oil into the hydraulic actuators, the components that will replace the classic shock absorbers in this case.
Hydropneumatic suspension
This type of suspension replaces the elastic components of the classic system, such as springs and dampers. Instead, it uses the technology of liquid spheres that allow adaptation to any type of road and traffic needs. It is often used for sports cars because it provides stability and the actual height of the car can be changed.
Air suspension
The air suspension uses a different shock reduction system and basically replaces the classic shock absorbers. This type of suspension uses pneumatic components and is usually used for large automobiles. However, the suspension system of a normal car can also be modified with a pneumatic one.
3. When should the car's suspension system be checked?
Like any component, car suspension can suffer over time due to bumps and repeated shocks. Thus, it is essential to periodically check the system, for optimal operation and increased safety. When it comes to car sales , the system must always be checked to ensure perfect operation.
There are certain signs that you can notice when the suspension system in cars is affected. Unusual noise, especially from cornering, is one of the most common and important signs. If your car makes noises that you don't recognize when you're behind the wheel, it's time for an investigation.
Also, any oil leakage should be carefully checked as it may indicate system damage. Any warping or cracking in the springs and shocks also requires a thorough investigation. On the other hand, the balance of the car can be a clue that you should not ignore. If the car has a tendency to lean to the left or to the right, and the sway is much too steep, the suspension system may be affected.
So, the suspension is one of the most important components of a car. It is not only designed to provide comfort while driving and to reduce damage to the car and parts, but is indispensable for driving safety and its stability. That is why it is important to know as many details as possible about suspension systems, which are the indications that can determine a certain degree of damage and also when it is time to do a check for optimal operation.
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