7 Parts of a Car Suspension System (and Their Functions)
The suspension system is essentially a set of parts that support your vehicle as it travels down the road. These components allow your vehicle to corner when you turn the steering wheel and absorb shocks as you go over bumps and potholes.
In a modern vehicle, the suspension system is made up of literally hundreds of parts, all of which work together to give you a safe and comfortable ride. However, here are the most important parts of your car’s suspension and how they function. If any of these components fail, your vehicle will suffer from drivability, comfort, and safety issues.
Suspension System Components
1) Wings
Coil springs are parts of the suspension system that absorb shocks when going over bumps or potholes in the road. In some car models, metal bars are used instead of springs for this purpose.
However, most vehicles are equipped with springs that bend when an impact is applied. This allows the driver and passengers to feel less of the shock as they are seated inside the vehicle.
2) Wheels/Tires
Wheels and tires are the external components of the suspension system. Tires are especially important because they are the only part of your car that touches the ground when you drive.
Every time you go over a bump or a pothole, your tires take a big hit. In addition, braking, cornering, and accelerating also have a big impact on your tires. If your tires have leaks or don’t have enough tread, it can affect their smoothness.
3) Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers work with springs to reduce the impact of bumps and potholes. Technically, the spring absorbs the impact, but the shock absorber supports the spring by reducing its movement.
This way, the vehicle doesn’t jump up and down violently when going over a bump. Shock absorbers contain thick oil. If they leak, it can cause problems in other parts of the suspension system.
4) Rods/Connections
There are several rods that connect the various components of the suspension system. These are metal connections that are very durable and should last the entire life of the vehicle.
5) Joints/Bearings/Bushes
These components maintain the connection to larger components. Additionally, parts such as bearings and bushes allow certain components to slide and rotate. They also require very little lubrication. time, the joints can also become too loose. So, if you have a problem with your suspension system, it’s probably one of the small joints, bearings, or bushings that are to blame.
6) Steering System
The steering system is not a direct part of the suspension system, but both work together to turn the wheels. Linkages, tie rods, joints, wheels, and other components are all controlled to some degree by the steering system. When you turn the steering wheel, the wheels underneath the vehicle turn to match your turning motion.
7) Frame
The frame is probably the largest component of the suspension system. It is essentially the structural skeleton that supports the weight and load of the entire vehicle, including its components. It helps support the vehicle’s body and engine, but other components of the suspension system also contribute.