Car Suspension and Common Types of Damage

Suspension system is one of the most important parts of a car, responsible for ensuring smoothness and stability during movement.

Research shows that a well-functioning suspension system can reduce braking distances and increase traction by up to 20%

However, after a long period of use, this system may encounter many problems due to environmental impacts and operating conditions. Recognizing signs of damage in a timely manner will help vehicle owners maintain and repair properly, thereby improving vehicle safety and operating quality.

What is car suspension?

The car suspension system is an important system, considered the "backbone" of the car, performing many key functions to help the car operate smoothly and safely. Basically, the suspension system is a set of components that connect the car frame to the wheels, with the task of absorbing shocks from the road surface, ensuring stability and balance for the car when moving.

The general structure of the suspension system includes:

• Spring: Absorbs impact force from the road surface, reduces shock and vibration.
• Shock absorbers: Helps to eliminate spring oscillations, preventing the vehicle from bouncing up and down excessively.
• Stabilizer bar: Keeps the vehicle body stable when cornering, limiting the phenomenon of tilting and rolling.
• Joints: Connect suspension components to each other and to the vehicle frame and wheels.

Common types of damage to suspension systems

1. Damage to the guide element

The role of the navigation unit:

• Determine the motion of the wheel relative to the frame.
• Receives and transmits torque between the wheel and the chassis.

Common types of damage:

• Worn out hub and ball joints: When these joints wear out, the wheel can misalign, resulting in uneven tire wear.
• Structural deformation: Parts such as rotating platforms, bridge girders, and leaf springs may warp due to strong impacts or overloading.
• Specification deviation: Structural parameters such as stiffening lugs may be adjusted incorrectly, affecting guiding ability.

If not corrected promptly, this condition can reduce tire grip and cause instability while driving.

2. Damage to the elastic part

The elastic part helps the wheel oscillate and maintain smoothness when moving.

Common problems:

• Reduced stiffness: When stiffness is reduced, the vehicle body height is reduced, increasing the possibility of impact when braking or accelerating.
• Leaf spring seizure: Lack of lubrication can cause the leaf spring to seize, resulting in severe vibration when driving on bad roads.
• Elastic part fracture: Leaf springs or springs can fracture due to overload or material fatigue, causing loss of elasticity.

When the elastic part fails, the noise in the suspension system will increase, affecting the driving experience.

3. Damaged shock absorber

Shock absorbers help dampen oscillations between the wheels and the vehicle body.

Common types of damage:

• Cylinder and piston wear: When these parts wear, oil can circulate through the clearances, reducing damping performance.
• Leaking seal: Oil leakage will lead to rapid pressure drop.
• Stuck damper valve: When oil is lacking or degraded due to chemical impurities.

If the shock absorbers are not working effectively, the vehicle will become more bumpy when traveling on rough roads.

4. Wheel damage

Wheels are an essential part of the suspension system.

Common problems:

• Cracked and inflated tires.
• Uneven wear (center or sides).
• Cup or cross-concave deformed tire.

This condition not only affects mobility but also endangers the driver.

5. Damaged stabilizer bar

Stabilizer bar helps maintain vehicle balance when cornering.

Common types of damage:

• Damage to the connecting rods.
• The rubber cushion is broken.
• Reduce the stiffness of the stabilizer bar.

When the stabilizer bar is damaged, the vehicle will make a loud noise and may tilt to one side when moving.

Signs of a damaged suspension system

To know if the suspension system is having problems or not, car owners need to pay attention to the following signs:

• Vehicle drifts when steering: If the steering is not precise or the vehicle veers off course for no apparent reason.
• More bumpy than usual: If the bumpy feeling increases noticeably when going over rough roads.
• A lower seat angle: If you find one side of the car is lower than the other, it could be due to worn or broken springs.

A study of over 5000 traffic accidents found that 15% of them were related to suspension failure. Maintaining the suspension in good condition can reduce the risk of accidents by 40%.

Cause of damage

Some of the main causes of suspension failure include:

• Overloading.
• Regularly travel on bad or rough roads.
• Collision with obstacle or traffic accident.
• No regular maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer.

Regular inspection and maintenance of the suspension system is essential to ensure driver safety as well as vehicle performance. Car owners should take their vehicles to reputable repair facilities to detect problems early and make timely repairs. This not only helps prolong the life of the suspension system but also enhances the driving experience for every journey.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it necessary to maintain the suspension system periodically?

Regular maintenance of the suspension system helps to detect problems early, reduce the risk of accidents and prolong the life of the vehicle. It is generally recommended to check this system at least every 10.000 km or after each tire change.

2. How much does a suspension repair typically cost?

Suspension repairs can cost anywhere from $1 to $10, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of vehicle. Shock absorber repairs can cost between $2 and $5, while leaf spring replacements can cost up to $7.

3. What are the main causes of damage to each component in the suspension system?

The main causes include:

• Guide: Strong impact or overload.
• Elastic parts: Lack of lubrication or prolonged overload.
• Shock absorber: Lack of oil or oil deterioration due to impurities.
• Wheels: Poor road conditions or incorrect tire pressure.
• Stabilizer bar: Worn rubber cushion or strong impact.

Understanding these causes will help car owners take more effective preventive measures.

4. Address for reputable and good price car suspension repair in HCM?

Thanh Phong Auto one of the leading auto repair centers in Ho Chi Minh City, specializing in providing auto repair and maintenance services with superior quality. With a team of experienced and well-trained technicians, we are committed to providing customers with the most effective repair solutions for all vehicle problems.

We offer a wide range of services, including engine system testing and diagnostics, brake system repair, driving, and especially suspension systemThanh Phong Auto uses modern technology and advanced equipment to ensure every job is done accurately and quickly.

In addition, we also provide comprehensive car care services such as car washing, polishing, and interior maintenance, helping your car stay in the best condition. With the motto "Customers are the center“, Thanh Phong Auto constantly strives to improve service quality to bring maximum satisfaction to customers. Come to us to experience the most professional and dedicated auto repair service!