automobile suspension: Quick Facts

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Two forms of automobile suspension. A vehicle is suspended over its wheels by springs, usually either coil or leaf springs (top and bottom, respectively). Irregularities in the road surface are transmitted mechanically to the springs. The energy in the compressed springs is dissipated by shock absorbers mounted inside or outside coil springs or beside leaf springs.

Diagram of a car with labeled components of the suspension and steering systems, including the steering wheel, tie rod, shock absorber, coil springs, sensors, and electronic control unit.

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