Do you know what your car suspension does?
This car part plays a more important role than you may even know, and that's why it's so critical to understand how it works AND be able to troubleshoot it for problems (before they turn into bigger issues). Toyota of Orlando is here to help (per usual). Here's what our experts have to say - check out this quick but detailed guide to your car suspension.
What is car suspension? Toyota of Orlando explains.
First things first: let's chat about what car suspension is. Basically, it suspends your car off the ground (obvious). However, it has two main functions that are a little more specific.
It keeps your car tires in contact with the road. Your car's axles and wheels are connected to the suspension system. Without it, your car tires would be constantly bouncing off the road, especially at high speeds or on bumpy terrain. Your car suspension system keeps them pushed down and in contact with the pavement.
It absorbs vibrations, impact forces, and shock. Your car will shake when you drive it. especially if you're traveling at high speeds or hitting bumps. Too much of that type of impact can damage it and that's where your suspension system comes in. It absorbs the bumps and vibrations and not only that, keeps you and your passengers comfortable inside the cabin.
What makes up your car suspension?
Your car suspension is composed of multiple parts - here's a basic guide to what each of them does.
Springs let your car bounce over bumps, help support extra weight in the car, and keep your Orlando Toyota at its original height.
Dampers come in many shapes, forms, and sizes. The three most common are shock absorbers, struts, and anti-sway bars. All of them absorb kinetic energy from the springs so they can stop bouncing.
Struts are mounted inside of a coil spring.
Shocks or shock absorbers are mounted next to coil springs.
Anti-sway bars join opposing sides of the suspension system to provide more stability.
How to troubleshoot your car suspension
Now that you know what your car suspension does and what it's made of, it'll be easier to troubleshoot it. Here are some signs our Toyota of Orlando auto service experts recommend being on the lookout for:
You notice that your car feels bumpier when you drive it
You feel it dipping in the front when you brake or dipping in the back when you accelerate
You feel like it's unstable at highway speeds of 70 mph+
You're having trouble steering, or the car is pulling to one side
Your car sits lower on one side when it's in park
Your tires are wearing unevenly because they're bouncing so much
Think you need auto service or repairs for your car suspension? We're here to help - call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.