Repair and diagnosis of chassis and suspensionDue to the poor quality of the roads and the aggressive operating conditions of cars in Ukraine, the condition of the chassis and suspension of the car requires constant attention.But what is the difference between these two concepts?The difference between chassis and suspensionA car's suspension system includes components that help the car move on the road and steer. The main components of the suspension system include the steering column, the steering gear, the front and rear axles, as well as the wheels and tires. The function of the suspension system is to ensure the stability, controllability and control of the car during movement. It is responsible for changing the direction of movement, steering and stabilizing the car. It can also be stated that these are details that are constantly moving.While the car suspension is responsible for absorbing shocks, vibrations and road irregularities, providing a comfortable ride for passengers. It consists of components such as springs, shock absorbers, levers and suspended moving parts. The main function of the suspension is to absorb and distribute the load acting on the car from the road surface. It reduces the impact of shocks and vibrations, which helps to ensure better stability and control of the car.So, the suspension system is responsible for the movement and control of the car, while the suspension provides a comfortable ride and absorbs shocks and vibrations. Both components are essential to the safety, efficiency and comfort of the vehicle, and their correct operation is essential for optimal vehicle operation.Problems most often encountered by motoristsIf you do not repair and diagnose the chassis and suspension of the car, you may encounter the following problems:
- Malfunction of shock absorbers: Shock absorbers are responsible for absorbing shocks and vibrations on the road. If their condition worsens, it can lead to unusually nervous behavior while driving the car, unwanted rearranging of the body on bumps, deterioration of control over the car, and a decrease in the level of comfort.
- Wear or damage to the springs: Springs are also important chassis and suspension components that support the vehicle's weight and provide a comfortable ride. Their wear or damage can lead to uneven weight distribution, uncontrolled vehicle sway and poor handling. Worn springs can burst at any moment, even when you drive along the highway at high speed, and this situation will not bring anything good. There are many examples when a rusty spring broke into several pieces during movement and the sharp edges instantly cut the tire.
- Problems with ball bearings and rods: Ball bearings and rods ensure the stability and turning of the car, the kinematic movement of all elements. Their damage or wear can lead to deflection of the wheels, uncontrolled movement, changes in camber-toe and increased tire wear.
- Malfunction of shock absorbers: Damping struts help to maintain the stability of the car during movement and braking. Their damage can lead to an increase in the braking distance, loss of control while driving and inconvenience during braking.
- Loss of elasticity or rupture of silent blocks: These are rubber-metal elements that connect the suspension levers with the car body, they are responsible for comfort and controllability.
- Regular technical inspection: According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the vehicle should undergo a technical inspection based on a regular schedule or mileage. During such an inspection, diagnostics of the chassis and suspension should be included to ensure that they are in good condition.
- Perceptible changes in the operation of the car: If you notice unusual vibration, knocking, rattling, other unusual noises or unevenness when driving or braking, this may indicate problems with the running gear and suspension. In such cases, it is necessary to immediately contact specialists for diagnosis.
- Deterioration of control over the car: If you feel that the vehicle's handling has become less precise or you have problems with steering response, this may be a sign of problems with the chassis and suspension. Regular diagnostics can reveal the cause and restore optimal controllability.
- For cars older than 5 years: Preferably at least once a year it is best to do such a diagnosis after the winter season, because the movement during the treatment of the roadway with reagents accelerates the aging of rubber and metal parts, in addition, snow and water wash away the roads, as a result of which cars more often fall into potholes.
- Suspension on springs: This is the most common type of suspension, which uses springs to support the vehicle's weight and absorb road bumps. Springs can be made of steel or using modern materials such as aluminum alloys or composites. This type of suspension provides a comfortable ride and flexibility in management.
- Air suspension: Air suspension uses air springs instead of traditional steel springs. It provides an opportunity to adjust the stiffness of the suspension depending on the road conditions and the driver's requirements. Air suspension also provides increased comfort and smoothness of movement.
- McPherson pendant: This type of suspension is used very often in modern cars. It consists of shock absorbers, springs and struts that work together to support the wheels and absorb shocks. McPherson suspension is simple in design, effective and reliable.
- Multi-link suspension: This type of suspension is used in higher-end cars and has multiple wishbones and suspension points for each wheel. Multi-link suspension provides high stability, controllability and comfort when driving. It can be more complex in design and require more attention during maintenance.