Classic Auto Group’s Decoder to Automotive Terminology: The Suspension System

Mar 15, 2022

We’re back with another edition of our Classic Auto Group Decoder! Since buying and fixing cars isn’t a part of our daily or even weekly lives, we know that it might seem a little daunting when you come in to shop or bring your car in for service. That’s’ why we’re helping with our Automotive Terminology posts, to help you better understand industry lingo and the inner workings of your vehicle.

We hope that these posts instill a sense of confidence within you so that you can stay in the know! You’ll be well-prepared for your next car purchase by knowing exactly what does what and features that best suit your needs. And you’ll be armed with knowledge enough to chat with your local service technician about the ins-and-outs of your maintenance appointments. It’s all right here on today’s blog; today’s topic is the Suspension System in your car.

So what even does your car’s suspension system do?

Allow us to break it down for you. This system consists of tires, tire air pressure, coil springs, rods and linkages, joints and bearings and bushings, and shock absorbers or struts. These work together as a system of protective, shock-absorbing components which ensure your car drives safely and smoothly, absorbing bumps and impacts from roadways and other kinetic energy. It supports the vehicle’s weight, absorbs and dampens the shock, and stabilizes the drive to keep it calm and comfortable.

How to Spot an issue in the Suspension System and What Should You Do?

The suspension system can take a lot of wear and tear as you drive, because that’s its job, of course! Still, as with anything, if you hit enough potholes, bumps, lumps, or curbs it will eventually lead to some regular maintenance and repairs. In addition, if you get into any accidents or fender-benders, even minor ones, those can also take their toll on your suspension and alignment.

On average you’ll need to replace the shocks/struts every 50k and 100k miles, but sometimes they may need repairs or service in between. And likewise, if your area has smooth roadways and flat surfaces, they may last a little longer than the average. You’ll notice it’s time to bring your car in for a service appointment when you notice the following:

Your vehicle drifts a bit whenever you turn or drive on a curve.
You are noticing it’s not a smooth ride and feel the bumps, or as if you’re driving the “Flintstone mobile” with rocks for wheels.
You notice your car pulls to one side or the other as you drive, especially at higher speeds.
You notice fluid leaks, oil, or grease accumulation on your shocks/struts.
Your tires are wearing unevenly due to poor alignment and damaged suspension.
You notice your vehicle frame is sinking a little bit.
You notice unusual noises; a broken strut or shock may have a clinking, clunking, or knocking sound when you hit a bump.

If you notice any of these things in your vehicle, call one of our service technicians right away to have it serviced. It’s not just about a smooth ride, it’s also what keeps your vehicle balanced and stable while driving! The suspension system is a vital safety component on your car, and it’s dangerous to drive with worn or broken shock absorbers and increases your risk of accident.

Some Important Phrases and Definitions to know:

Adjustable suspension

A suspension that offers driver-selectable damper (and sometimes spring) firmness settings to suit varying conditions and personal preferences.

Auto-leveling suspension

A suspension that adjusts the height of the vehicle so that its rear stays even with the front when cargo is carried; some systems offer multiple height settings for off-road, normal and high-speed operation.

Ball joints

Movable joints in the steering linkage and suspension system of a vehicle that permit rotating movement in any direction between the parts that are joined.

CV joints

Constant velocity joints, which are located on either end of the drive axles and transmit engine power while enabling full steering and suspension movement. Black accordion boots cover and protect these joints and hold lubricant.

Stabilizer bar

Sometimes called an anti-roll or anti-sway bar. A device that connects the left and right sides of a suspension to limit body roll in turn

Suspension fluid

A fluid used in suspension systems that are hydraulically adjustable.

Suspension geometry

The relationship between the placement of the mounting points for each of a vehicles suspension components.