The purpose of vehicle suspension
The suspension system of a vehicle is made up of several components including a coil spring and shock absorber. These components all work together to reduce the impact and vibrations of any uneven terrain encountered by the car, creating a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
Suspension is not just about comfort however, it is also key for safety. By absorbing shocks and keeping the vehicle stable, suspension allows the tyres to firmly maintain contact with the road for the period of time necessary for the brakes to function effectively.
Why is it important to have your vehicle’s suspension checked?
Deterioration of shock absorbers may not seem like a critical issue, but they can dramatically affect vehicle handling. Worn shock absorbers can increase your braking distance by 2 meters at a speed of 30mph due to limited road surface contact, so if you encounter a situation which requires you to do an emergency brake, an additional 2 meters could lead to catastrophic consequences.
Faults with your suspension are not always easy to recognise because it becomes worn at a gradual rate, so you won’t feel a sudden difference. There may be a knocking noise but you might not notice any indicators of worn suspension at all. That is why it is important to take your car for regular check-ups.
If you are local to Plymouth, Devon or Cornwall, book your car in for a suspension check with Specialist Vehicles online now.