Lack of wheel suspension leads to instability in the vehicle
In a car, the wheel suspension plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort, safety, and optimal performance. This system, which connects the body of the vehicle to the wheels and the road, absorbs shocks and impacts, decoupling them from the body.
The wheel suspension system is designed to protect the body from shocks and swaying, and to maintain the optimal connection to the road in every driving situation. It consists of various components such as wheel carriers, wheel hubs, wheel bearings, drive shafts, wheel brakes, suspension arms, leaf springs, dampers, and stabilizers.
One of the key components of the wheel suspension is the shock absorber, which absorbs and dampens the car's movements. Defective dampers and springs in a wheel suspension may absorb these movements insufficiently, leading to a decrease in comfort and safety, and an increased braking distance.
Each wheel suspension typically has individual springs, dampers, control arms, wheel carriers, and bearings, as well as stabilizers and joints. In the case of a single-wheel suspension, these components work together to guide the wheel, provide it with stability, and offer sufficient maneuverability.
It's important to note that even if only one shock absorber is defective, both should always be replaced per axle. This is because the failure of one component can cause wear and tear on the other, leading to further issues down the line.
Worn-out wheel bearings, joints, or stabilizers can make the driving behavior of a car imprecise, while worn-out tires tend to have a decreased grip on the road due to a defective wheel suspension.
The repair cost for a wheel suspension depends on the components that need to be replaced, with prices ranging from 300 to 800 euros (as of June 2024). For instance, a pure shock absorber replacement for the rear axle of a VW Golf costs about 200 euros (as of June 2024).
After the repair or replacement of the wheel suspension, the chassis must be checked and adjusted if necessary by means of an alignment. This is to ensure that the car handles correctly and safely after the repairs.
There are two main types of wheel suspensions: rigid axle suspension and independent wheel suspension. The rigid axle suspension connects both axle halves of an axle firmly, while the independent wheel suspension suspends each wheel individually, offering better handling and a smoother ride.
Given the safety concerns and the complexity of the wheel suspension system, it's recommended that work on the wheel suspension and chassis should be left to professionals. After all, a properly functioning wheel suspension is essential for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Read also:
- Quantum Computing Market in the Automotive Sector Forecast to Expand to $6,462.13 Million by 2034
- Texas finalizes 1.8 billion dollars for the construction of solar, battery, and gas-fueled mini-grids
- List of 2025's Billionaire Video Game Moguls Ranked by Fortune
- Solar project financing faces a hurdle due to imposed tariffs
