Suspension Phase Test

What is the primary purpose of a vehicle’s suspension system?

• To improve handling and comfort

• To increase fuel efficiency

• To reduce engine noise

• To improve braking performance

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of a vehicle's suspension system is to improve handling and comfort by absorbing shocks from the road, ensuring a smoother ride and better control of the vehicle.

Which of the following is considered an unsprung mass? (may be more than 1 answer)

• Chassis subframe

• Brake caliper

• Wheels and tyres

• Vehicle body

Answer explanation

Unsprung mass refers to components not supported by the vehicle's suspension. The brake caliper and wheels/tyres are unsprung masses, as they directly interact with the road, while the chassis subframe and vehicle body are sprung masses.

What happens when a car experiences body squat?

• The front end dips when accelerating

• The rear end drops when accelerating

• The car tilts to one side when cornering

• The front end dips when braking

Answer explanation

When a car accelerates, weight shifts to the rear, causing the rear end to drop. This phenomenon is known as body squat, which affects traction and handling.

What is the function of dampers (shock absorbers) in a suspension system?

• Support the weight of the vehicle

• Reduce spring oscillations

• Improve engine performance

• Increase spring oscillations

Answer explanation

Dampers, or shock absorbers, are crucial in a suspension system as they reduce spring oscillations. This helps maintain vehicle stability and comfort by controlling the movement of the springs after bumps or dips in the road.

Which suspension component helps maintain correct wheel alignment?

• Shock absorbers

• Coil springs

• Control arms

• Brake discs

Answer explanation

Control arms are crucial for maintaining correct wheel alignment as they connect the vehicle's suspension to the chassis, allowing for controlled movement and proper positioning of the wheels.

A vehicle’s suspension system helps keep the tyres in firm contact with the road at all times.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The suspension system is designed to absorb shocks and maintain tire contact with the road, ensuring better traction, stability, and control while driving. This is crucial for safety and performance.

The main function of the springs in a suspension system is to absorb impacts from the road surface.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The springs in a suspension system are designed to absorb shocks and impacts from uneven road surfaces, ensuring a smoother ride and better vehicle control. This function is crucial for comfort and safety.

Body dive occurs when a vehicle’s rear end drops while braking.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Body dive refers to the phenomenon where a vehicle's rear end drops during braking due to weight transfer. This occurs because the front of the vehicle dips as the brakes are applied, causing the rear to lower.

A rigid axle suspension allows each wheel to move independently.

• True

• Flase

Answer explanation

A rigid axle suspension connects the wheels, causing them to move together. In contrast, independent suspension allows each wheel to move independently, improving handling and ride quality.

Coil springs and leaf springs are both types of suspension springs used in vehicles.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Coil springs are typically used in modern vehicles for their compact design and better ride quality, while leaf springs are often found in heavier vehicles for load-bearing capacity. Both serve to absorb shocks and improve handling.