Hydraulic Suspension Systems (Advantages and Disadvantages)
Although it is rare, a vehicle may have a hydraulic suspension instead of the usual steel or air suspension. These are most commonly found on competition lowriders, but some high-end vehicles also use hydraulic suspension. However, on some vehicles, you can purchase a retrofit kit to convert the factory suspension.
This article will mainly refer to the use of this system outside of competition.
How hydraulic suspension works
Essentially, all hydraulic systems have something called hydraulic fluid that creates pressure within a “closed” system. This pressure creates a force, which is then transferred to various other components. In a hydraulic suspension system, this transmitted force lifts the chassis off the axle.
Unlike standard suspension components, the system has four separate dampers that contain hydraulic fluid. Depending on road conditions, each shock can be pressurized or depressurized. The overall goal is to make the ride more comfortable, especially on rough surfaces.
Hydraulic suspension systems are typically used as an upgrade for existing vehicles. Hydraulic suspension systems are available that can modify your existing suspension. The real question is whether it’s worth upgrading to a hydraulic suspension system.
Some people love these systems, while others say they’re a no-no. Instead of taking other people’s advice at face value, consider the pros and cons of driving a vehicle with a hydraulic suspension system. Then you can decide for yourself if this type of suspension is right for you.
Advantages
The main advantage of a hydraulic suspension system is that it provides a better driving experience. The response time of a hydraulic suspension is much faster than a traditional coil suspension.
The suspension reacts instantly when you go over a bump. This is mainly thanks to the suspension’s independent shock absorbers, which contain their own hydraulic fluid. This means that they can be pressurized or released independently of each other to absorb different impacts to the vehicle. Another advantage of hydraulic suspension systems is that they are adjustable. For example, you can adjust the shock absorbers of your vehicle to completely different heights.
If you don’t have experience in this, don’t worry. Just follow the installer’s recommendations on what height you should set it to. You can adjust the height you set depending on the different road conditions you drive on.
Disadvantages
Hydraulic suspension systems provide a comfortable driving experience, but they also cost a lot of money. Whether you are buying a hydraulic suspension system or a vehicle that is already equipped with this suspension, you can expect to pay much more than a steel suspension or a vehicle with this suspension.
In addition, the maintenance costs of a hydraulic suspension system are very high. Regular maintenance is recommended, so the cost of your car will add up every year.
Another disadvantage is that hydraulic suspensions can develop fluid leaks. If the damper is damaged or worn, hydraulic oil will leak out from here and there. This will cause the whole suspension system to become unbalanced.
This means further repairs or replacement of these parts. At the same time, damage may occur to other parts of the vehicle. Compared to air suspension, hydraulic suspension is considered to have more shocks while driving.
The Verdict
Hydraulic suspension systems offer a smoother ride than standard steel suspension systems, but they’re not as quiet as air suspension. Essentially, hydraulic systems fall somewhere in between the two.
The cost is also somewhere in between. The only real advantage of a hydraulic system is that it’s adjustable. If you like this, it might be worth the extra money to upgrade. Otherwise, keep your current suspension or opt for air suspension.
