Let's learn about the 4 types of springs in a car suspension system.

Recognizing the 4 types of springs in a car suspension system is very useful. This way, you can understand the differences and advantages of each spring. As you know, each spring has its own role in absorbing shocks and vibrations that occur when the car is in motion. Instead of being curious, let's learn more about the types of springs by paying attention to the following discussion.

Types of Springs in Car Suspension Systems

As one of the components of a car's suspension system, springs play an important role in dampening vibrations and shocks. Especially when the car is traversing uneven or damaged road surfaces. Thus, the function of springs in cars makes driving feel more comfortable because the car's acceleration is maximized. These car suspension springs are divided into several types. Here are the types of springs in detail.

1. Leaf Spring

The first type is the leaf spring. As the name suggests, this spring has a shape resembling a leaf. Leaf springs are made from flexible steel strips. Leaf springs are often used in large vehicles, such as buses and trucks. However, leaf springs can also be found in cargo vehicles like pickup trucks. In off-road vehicles, you can also find leaf springs. An example of an off-road vehicle that uses leaf springs is the Daihatsu Taft. 

Advantages of Leaf Springs 

Leaf springs have several advantages as follows. 

• Have a simple yet strong and durable construction
• Capable of absorbing shocks and vibrations on their own
• Functions as a support arm for vehicles carrying heavy loads. 

Disadvantages of Leaf Springs

The disadvantages are as follows.

• Heavy
• Cannot absorb high-frequency vibrations.

2. Coil Spring

Coil springs have a shape like a coil, but some are also spiral-shaped. Coil springs are made from strong steel rods, allowing them to absorb shocks effectively. Therefore, this spring is often used in vehicles that prioritize passenger comfort. For example, in sedan cars.

Advantages of Coil Springs

The advantages are as follows.

• Excellent shock and vibration absorption. Even better than leaf springs and torsion bars
• Longer spring force and deflection.

Disadvantages of Coil Springs 

The disadvantages are as follows. 

• Very complicated suspension construction.

3. Torsion Spring

This type of spring is made from elastic steel, allowing it to withstand twisting when the car passes over damaged roads. You can find this spring in the front wheel suspension of small cars. 

Advantages of Torsion Springs

The advantages are as follows.

• Very lightweight compared to all other types of springs
• When this spring is used, the suspension becomes simple
• Excellent vibration absorption even at very high vibration frequencies, so passengers will not feel the vibrations.

Disadvantages of Torsion Springs

The disadvantages are as follows.

• Less strong construction compared to leaf and coil springs
• Less efficient productivity

4. Air Suspension

As the name suggests, this spring relies on air to dampen vibrations in the car. This spring compresses air in a bag connected to the suspension arm. When there is a vibration, the bag will expand like a cushion.

Advantages of Air Suspension

The advantages are as follows.

• Very responsive to vibrations
• Capable of supporting very heavy loads
• Spring height can be adjusted

Disadvantages of Air Suspension

• Very expensive
• Difficult maintenance
• Many additional components 

Thus, these are the types of springs you need to know. If your car's suspension springs have issues, visit the nearest Daihatsu workshop immediately to maintain your driving comfort.