Your automobile has both a rear and front suspension comprised primarily of springs and shock absorbers. The springs bear the weight of your vehicle, keep the wheels in contact with the road and provide you with a smooth, controlled ride.
No matter what kind of vehicle you have, its engineers had to consider key factors when determining the design and calibration of your car suspension. These include:
- Bumper height
- Intended use
- Vehicle weight
- Cargo weight
- Typical road conditions
- Acceleration, braking and cornering
Everything Rests on Your Springs
The springs in your suspension system do most of the work. Although there are several types of springs, the main four are:
- Leaf
- Coil
- Air
- Torsion bars
To support your car, the springs compress and rebound accordingly as road conditions shift up and down. In some cases, they may be combined for additional support.
However, the constant motion can create an uncomfortable ride. To eliminate the bouncing and swaying caused by bumps, shock absorbers are utilized to smooth the ride. These piston-like devices create a smoother ride by reducing the variations in the spring rate and absorb the shock. They also help keep the tire in contact with the road, keeping you in control.
Shocks, struts and sway bars are other elements of a typical suspension system.
Greater Improvements for Enhanced Driving
Increased driving comfort, as well as safer driving, is a result of improvements in suspension and steering. Other contributing factors include increased strength and durability of suspension components, as well as advances in tire construction.
During a check of your suspension system, Gemini Car Care technicians examine your car’s:
- Tie rod ends (inner and outer)
- Idler arm
- Pitman arm
- Rack and pinion unit
- Rack and pinion bellows boots
- Springs
- Shock absorbers
- All other suspension components