Exceptional Steering & Suspension
Repair in Arcata, CA

The auto suspension system is a critical part of a vehicle’s architecture, designed to maximize the friction between the tires and the road surface, provide steering stability with good handling, and ensure passenger comfort. This system absorbs and dampens the shocks and vibrations from the road, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Key Functions of the Suspension System

• Enhancing Comfort: The suspension system cushions passengers from bumps, potholes, and other road irregularities, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Improving Handling: By maintaining optimal tire contact with the road, the suspension system improves vehicle stability and handling, especially during cornering and braking.
• Maintaining Vehicle Control: The suspension system helps maintain vehicle control by ensuring that the wheels are aligned properly and can move independently, adapting to varying road surfaces.

Main Components of the Suspension System

• Springs: Springs absorb and store energy from road shocks, then release it to maintain the vehicle’s height and ride quality.
• Shock Absorbers (Dampers): Shock absorbers control the rebound of the springs and dissipate the energy from road impacts, preventing excessive bouncing and ensuring a smooth ride.
• Struts: Struts are a type of shock absorber that also provide structural support to the suspension system. They integrate multiple components, including the shock absorber and coil spring, into a single unit.
• Control Arms (A-Arms): Control arms connect the wheels to the vehicle’s frame, allowing for controlled movement and maintaining proper wheel alignment. They help manage the motion of the wheels in response to road conditions and steering inputs.
• Ball Joints: Ball joints act as pivot points between the control arms and the steering knuckles, allowing for smooth and controlled movement of the suspension system while steering.
• Stabilizer Bar (Sway Bar): The stabilizer bar connects opposite wheels and reduces body roll during cornering. It helps maintain stability and improve handling by distributing weight evenly across the tires.
• Bushings: Bushings are small rubber or polyurethane components that cushion and reduce friction between metal parts of the suspension system. They help absorb shocks and vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride and quieter operation.
• Steering Knuckles: Steering knuckles connect the suspension system to the wheels and provide mounting points for the wheel hubs and bearings. They play a crucial role in the steering mechanism, allowing the wheels to turn in response to driver inputs.
• Wheel Bearings: Wheel bearings support the weight of the vehicle and allow the wheels to rotate smoothly with minimal friction. They are essential for maintaining proper wheel alignment and ensuring a smooth ride.