How to Properly Cross Speed Bumps in a Vehicle?
2 Answers
Correctly crossing speed bumps involves slowing down in advance and then passing over them straight on, distributing the impact evenly across both tires to balance the suspension load on both sides. This method minimizes damage to the vehicle. Relevant details are as follows: 1. From the perspective of the vehicle body and suspension structure, crossing a speed bump is essentially a compression movement between the wheels (including the suspension) and the ground against the vehicle body. Passing vertically over the bump causes both wheels to contract simultaneously, with the force from the ground evenly shared by the springs and shock absorbers of both wheels, regardless of whether the suspension is independent or non-independent. In this scenario, the vehicle body primarily experiences vertical forces that are symmetrically balanced on both sides, resulting in a more even distribution of stress. 2. Crossing speed bumps at an angle actually causes greater wear and tear on the springs, shock absorbers, and the entire vehicle body (frame). This can inversely explain why crossing at an angle feels more comfortable than going straight over—because the entire system absorbs more energy, leaving less energy (vibration) to be transmitted to the passengers.
I've been driving for decades and prioritize safety and stability when going over speed bumps. I release the throttle about 50 meters in advance, allowing the speed to naturally drop to around 10-15 km/h, and never brake suddenly. When reaching the bump, I ensure both front wheels or rear wheels pass over simultaneously to avoid uneven force distribution that could cause body sway. If space permits, I slightly angle the car to reduce impact force. After passing, I don’t accelerate immediately but wait until the car stabilizes before applying throttle. Driving too fast or steering erratically can easily scrape the undercarriage or damage the suspension system. By maintaining this habit, my car has remained in good condition, and tire wear is minimized. Staying alert and anticipating road changes helps prevent accidents. These small techniques have helped me drive safely in all weather conditions.
