Your car’s suspension system is responsible for smoothing out the ride and keeping the car in control. The suspension system limits the impact of particular road conditions to not only the car, but the passengers riding inside. It also provides steering stability and ensures better handling of the vehicle.
The suspension system is basically a group of several components, which work together to help provide a comfortable and smooth ride. There are different types of suspension systems used in vehicles which may vary depending on the make & model of your vehicle. To put it in a simplest way, a suspension consists of two main components: Springs & Dampers.
Springs:
There are 3 types of springs used: Coil Springs, Torsion Bars and Leaf Springs. Majority of the vehicles use Coil Spring setup which is basically a helical spring. Leaf Springs on the other hand are like layered metal connected to the axle and are found in most heavy duty trucks, older cars and yes Suzuki Mehran! The Torsion Bars gives coiled-spring-like performance based on the twisting properties of a steel bar.
Dampers:
Dampers, also usually called as Shock Absorbers actually dampen the vertical motion induced by driving your car along a rough surface. Dampers perform two key functions. They absorb any larger-than-average bumps in the road so that the upward velocity of the wheel over the bump isn’t transmitted to the car chassis. And secondly, they help keep your vehicle’s wheels planted on the road.
In addition there are little things called ‘Suspension Bushes’ which hardly anyone pays any attention to. Bushes are vitally important for your car’s handling, as well as your own safety. These are the pieces of rubber which separate most of the parts of your suspension from each other. And since these are made of rubber, they don’t last forever and need to be checked & replaced as & when required.
Your car’s suspension system must be in good condition. Worn suspension components may reduce the stability of the vehicle and reduce driver control, as well as accelerate wear on other suspension system components. Replacing worn or inadequate shocks and struts will help maintain good ride control, as they:
- Control spring and suspension movement
- Provide consistent handling and braking
- Prevent premature tire wear
- Help keep the tires in contact with the road
- Maintain dynamic wheel alignment
- Control vehicle bounce, roll & sway
- Reduce wear on other vehicle systems
No matter how much it costs, it is always better to check and maintain suspension problems in time, instead of having a major breakdown down the road.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
