Suspension and Shocks

The suspension system in your vehicle maximises the friction between the tyres and road surface, this provides steering stability with good handling and helps ensure the comfort of the passengers.

Suspension and Shock Absorber Repairs

At Burwood Automotive and Exhaust, we use only the best brands such as Monroe, and have the expertise and equipment to maintain your car’s steering responsiveness and stability.

How the Suspension Works

Your vehicle’s suspension is designed to give you and your passengers a smooth ride while maintaining excellent driving control. When you accelerate, bumps cause forward energy to be converted into vertical energy which then travels through the frame of your vehicle. To absorb this energy, the suspension system uses coil and leaf springs. Without these, the vertical energy would cause your vehicle to jump off the road, reducing tyre friction and control. As the vehicle comes back down, the force would be greater because nothing would be absorbing the energy, resulting in an uncomfortable and dangerous ride.

Suspension and Shock Absorber Components

Every suspension system is different, though most are made up of common components such as the chassis or frame, coil springs, leaf springs, dampers including struts and shock absorbers, and anti-sway or torsion bars in various combinations.

The coil and leaf springs absorb up-and-down forces, keeping the tyres planted firmly on the road and maintaining friction and control. Most modern cars use independent front and rear suspension. Dampers, including struts and shock absorbers, dissipate the energy absorbed by the springs, allowing the motion to settle quickly.

Warning Signs

If your suspension needs attention, you may notice:

• Excessive bouncing after bumps
• Poor steering stability or vague handling
• Knocking or clunking noises from underneath
• Uneven tyre wear
• Reduced ride comfort

If your car feels unstable, uncomfortable, or noisy over bumps, it is worth getting the suspension checked before it turns into a bigger problem.