Suspension & Steering part descriptions:
A - M
Active Suspension
Active suspension is a computerized system that controls the vertical movement of a vehicle’s wheels. It uses sensors to monitor suspension, body movements, and feedback from stability control and anti-lock brakes in real-time. The system adjusts shock absorbers and springs to minimize road irregularities and optimize ride height and handling.
Ball Joint
A ball joint connects the wheel to the steering mechanism. It allows for smooth wheel rotation and movement. Ball joints can wear out over time, potentially causing clunking noises, vibrations, or steering issues if not properly maintained or replaced.
CV Half Shaft Boot Kit
The CV Half Shaft Boot Kit is a component that includes a CV boot (cover), grease, and clamps. It secures the boot to the axle shaft in a vehicle’s constant velocity joint. Signs of failure include cracking rubber, grease leakage, and clicking sounds when turning.
Control Arm
Control arms connect each wheel to the vehicle’s frame or body. They allow wheels to move up and down, absorbing road irregularities, and control shock absorber movement. Control arms are vital for ride quality, handling, steering, and safety. They can be made of iron, steel, or aluminum.
Control Arm Bushing
Control arm bushings are components that sit between the control arms and the car’s frame. They allow the control arms to pivot smoothly as the wheels move up and down over bumps. Worn bushings can cause knocking noises, uneven tire wear, and steering problems like wandering or pulling to one side.
Front Coil Spring
A suspension component that supports vehicle weight, maintains ride height, and allows the suspension to adapt to road conditions. It can exhibit symptoms like knocking noises over bumps or low ride height when failing. Replacement requires caution due to high pressure and should be done in pairs.
Front Shock Absorber
Controls the vehicle’s vertical movement, absorbing road impacts and maintaining tire contact with the surface. It improves ride comfort, handling, and safety by dampening oscillations and preventing excessive bouncing.
Front Sway Bar
The front sway bar, also known as an anti-roll bar or stabiliser bar, is a suspension component that connects the left and right sides of the vehicle. It helps reduce body roll during cornering, improving handling and stability while maintaining tire contact with the road.
Inner Tie Rod End
The inner tie rod end connects the steering rack to the outer tie rod. It allows for precise steering control and helps maintain proper wheel alignment. When worn, it can cause steering issues, uneven tire wear, and compromised vehicle handling.
Leaf Spring
Leaf springs are curved, flexible metal strips that support a vehicle’s weight and absorb road shocks. They connect the axle to the frame, providing suspension and maintaining proper wheel alignment. Commonly used in trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, leaf springs offer durability and load-bearing capacity.