What are the disadvantages of independent suspension?
2 Answers
The disadvantages of independent suspension are its complex structure, high cost, and inconvenient maintenance. Additionally, due to its complex structure, it may occupy some of the passenger space inside the vehicle. An independent suspension system is one where the wheels on each side are individually suspended under the frame or body via an elastic suspension system. Its advantages include: 1. Light weight; 2. Reduced impact on the body and improved wheel ground adhesion; 3. The use of softer springs with lower stiffness to enhance vehicle comfort; 4. Lowering the engine position and the vehicle's center of gravity, thereby improving driving stability; 5. Independent movement of left and right wheels, reducing body tilt and vibration.
I've used independent suspension for many years and found its biggest drawback is the outrageously high cost. The complex structure involves numerous components like shock absorbers and springs, and every broken part requires expensive replacements during repairs, with matching parts often hard to find. It also occupies excessive space, forcing the car body to allocate more room for installation, which shrinks interior space—especially rear seats or trunk—compromising practicality. Additionally, while providing comfort on rough roads, independent suspension lacks rigidity and deforms easily. For example, during off-roading or heavy loads, wheels wobble asynchronously, increasing rollover risks. Key point: Compared to non-independent suspension, it's more prone to failures—I've witnessed components shattering on bumpy roads firsthand, leading to frequent long-term repairs. Overall, while delivering a smooth ride, the trade-offs are too steep, making it particularly uneconomical for budget-conscious owners.
