Your vehicle's suspension keeps you comfortable while you're in the cab, as the shocks and springs help to absorb bumps and bouncing from rough and uneven roads. However, this system is also important for the vehicle itself, as all that bumping and bouncing is bad for many of the parts under the hood! Without a good suspension system, parts can rub against each other and wear down more quickly, and connections can come loose and need repair or replacement. Since this system is so important, note a few common misconceptions about your vehicle's suspension so you can ensure it's always in good repair:
A lower suspension and better handling
When you abruptly turn a corner, a higher suspension might need to work harder to keep the vehicle in place. This is why it's easy to think that a lower suspension, or one with less movement, means better handling and response from your vehicle.
However, a while a lower suspension does mean keeping the car's centre of gravity lower so it's less likely to pull away from turns, this also means poorer handling over railroad tracks and potholes, or over rough and uneven roads. That lower suspension doesn't give the vehicle room to absorb those bumps and bouncing, and this can make it harder to handle the vehicle. Choose a suspension that's low enough to give you better handling around turns while still allowing the vehicle that cushioning it needs for all road conditions.
A higher suspension and shock absorption
Some vehicle lift kits do nothing but lift the vehicle, for a sportier look and feel. Lifting the vehicle can also make it safer for off-roading if you drive over brush and other vegetation. However, a lift kit is different than a performance suspension system. That lift may not absorb shock and may actually allow the vehicle to bounce even more if you don't have heavy-duty shocks to compensate for that added height. Discuss your needs for a new suspension system with your mechanic so you choose what will protect your car, not just improve its overall look.
Larger tyres aren't enough
Larger tyres with thicker rubber can absorb more shock on the road and may help to keep your vehicle from bouncing. Thicker tread can also mean more stopping power, so there is less wear and tear on your suspension. However, you still need quality shocks and other parts of the suspension system to keep the vehicle from bouncing and to absorb that movement, so you protect parts under the hood and feel comfortable in the cab.
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