All of the parts that make up a vehicle are important, especially its suspension system. If you’ve noticed that your truck’s handling has declined or is no longer smooth, there may be an issue with its suspension system. Read on to learn more about truck suspensions and how they operate.

What is a Truck Suspension System?

Composed of a series of springs and shock absorbers, a suspension system is designed to cushion both the driver and the vehicle from potentially uncomfortable and/or hazardous road conditions. Your vehicle’s suspension system works hard to withstand a considerable amount of stress compared to other major vehicle systems.

Why is Truck Suspension Important?

Truck suspensions are crucial to providing stability on the road. When it comes to heavy-duty vehicles like work trucks, the suspension system plays a critical role in helping support the different operations the vehicles perform. Truck suspensions are important for improving a vehicle’s ride and handling along with passenger safety and comfort. 

Signs of Suspension Trouble

Your suspension system works hard to ensure a comfortable driving experience. Recognizing the warning signs of suspension system problems can mean the difference between needing major or minor repairs. But how can you tell if something is wrong with your vehicle’s suspension?

Here are a few signs to look out for:

• The vehicle forces you to slow down more than usual for cornering
• New tires wear out quickly with no obvious cause
• You find moisture on or near your shock absorbers
• Steering is difficult when traversing bumps
• Your vehicle dips forward when you brake

Truck Suspension Components

The suspension system of your car is complex and made up of many different parts. All vehicles typically have a front and back suspension system, as all four wheels are connected differently.  The suspension system components are located between the frame of the vehicle and the road. 

Here are a few essential parts that control how your vehicle handles the road:

• Springs: The springs are the foundation of a suspension system. Their primary job is to hold up the weight of the vehicle and its cargo. There are three types of springs used in suspension systems: coil, leaf, and torsion bar. 
• Shock absorbers: These pump-like devices absorb or dampen the compression and rebound of the springs and suspension. Not only does this control the unwanted and excess spring motion but it keeps your tires in contact with the road at all times. The smoothest riding shocks you can get would be ones identical or nearly identical to factory tuning, typically something like the Bilstein B4 series, KYB Excel-G Series, or Monroe OE Spectrum. All of these have the most forgiving valving for road handling and comfort.
• Linkage: The steering linkage is composed of all the parts of the steering system that connect the steering wheel to the front wheels. The steering linkage transfers the motion of the steering gear output shaft to the steering arms that turn the wheels to maneuver and control the direction of the vehicle.
• Control Arms: Often called A arms, A frames, I arms, or links, control arms connect each wheel to the frame of your vehicle. This gives you better control and stability over rough surfaces and sharp turns.
• Stabilizer Bars: Stabilizer bars give you control, preventing your vehicle from unnecessary swaying and lurching.

Reliable Service From a Dependable Company

A vehicle’s suspension system tends to be out of sight and out of mind until there’s a problem. If you’re overdue for routine maintenance, it might be time to schedule an appointment for your commercial car or truck with Vancouver Axle & Frame.

We’re proud of our enduring history of quality and professional services for our customers. Our knowledgeable, friendly and experienced team of mechanics will go the extra mile for every client that we serve. We want to be your first call for preventative maintenance and a thorough inspection of your vehicles.

Contact us to schedule an appointment for your truck or vehicle’s suspension repair and maintenance today.