What Are the Different Types of Suspension Systems? (And Why They Matter)
You probably don’t think about your car’s suspension system – until you hit a pothole and feel like your spine briefly left your body. While your engine powers your car, it’s the suspension that keeps it controlled, comfortable, and not bouncing all over the road like a hyperactive rugby ball.
So, let’s break it down: what types of suspension systems are out there, how do they work, and which one is under your car?
“Good suspension is like a good referee – you don’t notice it until it’s missing.”
What Does the Suspension System Do?
The suspension system connects your car’s body to its wheels and allows:
- Smooth ride comfort over bumps and rough terrain
- Stable handling and steering
- Even tyre contact for maximum grip
- Reduced wear on other components
It’s made up of shocks, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and more. But at the heart of it all is the type of suspension system your car uses.
1. MacPherson Strut Suspension (Front)
One of the most common types in modern vehicles, especially small cars and sedans.
How it works:
A strut combines a coil spring and a shock absorber in one unit, mounted between the wheel hub and the car’s frame.
Pros:
- Compact and simple
- Cost-effective
- Light weight
Cons:
- Limited adjustability
- Less ideal for high-performance handling
2. Double Wishbone Suspension
Used in many performance cars and some bakkies.
How it works:
Uses two control arms (upper and lower “wishbones”) to hold the wheel. The setup allows more precise movement.
Pros:
- Excellent handling and cornering
- More consistent tyre contact
Cons:
- More complex and expensive
- Takes up more space
3. Multi-Link Suspension
Found in higher-end sedans and SUVs. Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of the double wishbone.
How it works:
Uses several arms and links to control wheel motion in all directions.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and grip
- Great for high-speed stability
Cons:
- Expensive to manufacture and repair
- More parts = more things that can wear out
4. Torsion Beam (Rear Suspension)
Common in compact and budget-friendly cars.
How it works:
A single, rigid beam connects both rear wheels, allowing limited independent movement.
Pros:
- Simple and affordable
- Compact design
Cons:
- Less refined handling
- Bumpy over uneven surfaces
5. Leaf Spring Suspension
Mostly found in bakkies, 4x4s, and commercial vehicles.
How it works:
Uses stacked steel plates (“leaves”) to absorb shocks. Mounted longitudinally between the axle and chassis.
Pros:
- Strong and durable
- Excellent load-carrying ability
Cons:
- Bumpy ride quality
- Poor handling in fast corners
6. Air Suspension
More common in luxury cars, buses, and premium SUVs.
How it works:
Uses airbags (instead of springs) that adjust ride height and stiffness based on load and road conditions.
Pros:
- Ultra-smooth ride
- Adjustable height and firmness
Cons:
- Very expensive to repair
- Complicated electronics prone to faults
Honourable Mentions:
- Hydraulic suspension: Found in older Citroëns or off-road monsters
- Magnetic suspension: Used in some high-performance cars (uses electromagnets for real-time dampening adjustments)
Suspension & Safety
Your suspension affects:
- Braking distance
- Tyre wear
- Body roll
- Driver control in emergencies
A bad suspension system can turn everyday driving into a risk – and wear out tyres and parts faster than normal.
“A good suspension doesn’t just smooth out bumps – it keeps you connected to the road, no matter the conditions.”
There’s more than one way to keep a car planted on the road. Whether it’s the trusty MacPherson strut in your city runabout or the rugged leaf spring setup under your bakkie, each suspension type is built with a purpose.
Understanding your car’s suspension can help you spot issues early, improve your driving comfort, and even guide your next vehicle purchase. After all, a comfortable ride isn’t a luxury – it’s part of safe, smart driving.