We’re back with another edition of our Atlantic Auto Group Decoder! Since buying and fixing cars isn’t a part of our daily or even weekly lives, we know that it might seem a little daunting when you come in to shop or bring your car in for service. We’re hoping our Automotive Terminology posts will instill you with a sense of confidence in navigating the industry’s terms and vocab. You’ll be well-prepared for your next car purchase by knowing exactly what does what and features that best suit your needs. And you’ll be armed with knowledge enough to chat with your local service technician about the ins-and-outs of your maintenance appointments.
It’s all right here on today’s blog: Today’s topic is the Suspension System.
So what even does your car’s suspension system do?
Allow us to break it down for you. This system consists of tires, tire air pressure, coil springs, rods and linkages, joints and bearings and bushings, and shock absorbers or struts. These work together as a system of protective, shock-absorbing components which ensure your car drives safely and smoothly, absorbing bumps and impacts from roadways and other kinetic energy. It supports the vehicle’s weight, absorbs and dampens the shock, and stabilizes the drive to keep it calm and comfortable.
How to Spot an issue in the Suspension System and What Should You Do?
The suspension system’s job is to absorb the energy from potholes, lumps, bumps, cracks, and curbs as you drive, but eventually it will lead to some regular maintenance and repairs. In addition, if you get into any accidents or fender-benders, even minor ones, those can also take their toll on your suspension and alignment. We’ll help you learn what to look and listen for so you’ll know to bring your car in for service before it becomes a bigger issue. Keep reading!
If your area has smooth, well-kept roadways your struts and shocks may last longer than average, but you will usually need to replace the shocks/struts at least every 50k and 100k miles. It’s possible that you may need service in between if you have a particularly bad incident, but for the most part this won’t be a repetitive repair.
Here’s what happens when it’s time to bring your car in for a repair:
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Your vehicle begins to drift a bit whenever you turn or drive on a curve.
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You notice that you can feel the bumps and shudders as you drive
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You feel as though you’re driving the “Flintstone mobile” with rocks for wheels.
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You feel the vehicle pull to one side or the other as you drive, especially at higher speeds.
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You notice fluid leaks, oil, or grease accumulation on your shocks/struts.
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Your tire treads are wearing unevenly.
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You notice your vehicle frame is sinking a bit.
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You notice unusual noises; a broken strut or shock may have a clinking, clunking, or knocking sound when you hit a bump.
It’s not just about a smooth ride, it’s also what keeps your vehicle balanced and stable while driving! The suspension system is a vital safety component on your car, and it’s dangerous to drive with worn or broken shock absorbers and increases your risk of accident. If you notice any of these things in your vehicle, call one of our service technicians right away to have it serviced.
Some Important Phrases and Definitions to know:
Adjustable suspension
A suspension that offers driver-selectable damper (and sometimes spring) firmness settings to suit varying conditions and personal preferences.
Auto-leveling suspension
A suspension that adjusts the height of the vehicle so that its rear stays even with the front when cargo is carried; some systems offer multiple height settings for off-road, normal and high-speed operation.
Ball joints
Movable joints in the steering linkage and suspension system of a vehicle that permit rotating movement in any direction between the parts that are joined.
CV joints
Constant velocity joints, which are located on either end of the drive axles and transmit engine power while enabling full steering and suspension movement. Black accordion boots cover and protect these joints and hold lubricant.
Stabilizer bar
Sometimes called an anti-roll or anti-sway bar. A device that connects the left and right sides of a suspension to limit body roll in turn
Suspension fluid
A fluid used in suspension systems that are hydraulically adjustable.
Suspension geometry
The relationship between the placement of the mounting points for each of a vehicles suspension components.
