A vehicle is more than just four (or more) wheels rolling down the road. It has many different systems that should be working together so that you are driving as safe as possible down the road. One important system, but one that doesn’t receive much attention, is the suspension system. It keeps your vehicle connected to the road!
The suspension system performs six functions:
- Helps maintain the appropriate vehicle ride height
- Reduces the effect of shock forces on bumpy roads
- Helps maintain correct wheel alignment
- Supports the weight of the vehicle
- Keeps the tires rolling down the road efficiently
- Keeps the wheels turning in the right direction
There are five major subsystems that make up the suspension system:
- Tires, wheels, and car axles – Tires provide traction for acceleration, braking, and cornering, as well as absorbing small bumps. They will wear out over time just from normal wear and tear. Car axles and wheels can also fail from accidents or hitting potholes.
- Springs – Springs absorb large bumps but may break if the vehicle hits a bump very hard, and some springs will eventually start to sag. Springs are much less prone to failure than most of the other suspension components.
- Shocks and struts – Shocks (or struts) dampen the motion of the springs after a bump, keeping the vehicle from bouncing excessively. Together with the car axles, shocks and/or struts work together to ensure that your vehicle operates safely.
- Rods and Connectors – Every suspension system includes rods and other connecting pieces that collectively keep the wheels in place. They are solid metal so they rarely fail except in major accidents.
- Bushings, bearings, and joints – These components allow a small amount of twisting or sliding among the other components of the suspension system. They can wear out from normal use and will need to be replaced.
Tip to Remember: When any of the components of the suspension system wear and fail, the performance of other systems (especially the braking system) is significantly decreased. For example, it will take a longer distance than usual to come to a complete stop. Don’t let your vehicle be the cause of a serious accident.
Need an inspection of the suspension system? Contact the ASE-certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when do car struts need to be replaced and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.
A vehicle is more than just four (or more) wheels rolling down the road. It has many different systems that should be working together so that you are driving as safe as possible down the road. One important system, but one that doesn’t receive much attention, is the suspension system. It keeps your vehicle connected to the road!
The suspension system performs six functions:
- Helps maintain the appropriate vehicle ride height
- Reduces the effect of shock forces on bumpy roads
- Helps maintain correct wheel alignment
- Supports the weight of the vehicle
- Keeps the tires rolling down the road efficiently
- Keeps the wheels turning in the right direction
There are five major subsystems that make up the suspension system:
- Tires, wheels, and car axles – Tires provide traction for acceleration, braking, and cornering, as well as absorbing small bumps. They will wear out over time just from normal wear and tear. Car axles and wheels can also fail from accidents or hitting potholes.
- Springs – Springs absorb large bumps but may break if the vehicle hits a bump very hard, and some springs will eventually start to sag. Springs are much less prone to failure than most of the other suspension components.
- Shocks and struts – Shocks (or struts) dampen the motion of the springs after a bump, keeping the vehicle from bouncing excessively. Together with the car axles, shocks and/or struts work together to ensure that your vehicle operates safely.
- Rods and Connectors – Every suspension system includes rods and other connecting pieces that collectively keep the wheels in place. They are solid metal so they rarely fail except in major accidents.
- Bushings, bearings, and joints – These components allow a small amount of twisting or sliding among the other components of the suspension system. They can wear out from normal use and will need to be replaced.
Tip to Remember: When any of the components of the suspension system wear and fail, the performance of other systems (especially the braking system) is significantly decreased. For example, it will take a longer distance than usual to come to a complete stop. Don’t let your vehicle be the cause of a serious accident.
Need an inspection of the suspension system? Contact the ASE-certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when do car struts need to be replaced and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.
