What does MacPherson suspension mean?
2 Answers
MacPherson suspension is a type of independent suspension and one of the most popular independent suspensions today, commonly used for the front wheels of cars. Below is an introduction to MacPherson suspension: Function of MacPherson suspension: MacPherson suspension is an important component that elastically connects the vehicle frame to the axle. Its structure and performance parameters directly affect the ride comfort and handling stability of the car. Advantages of MacPherson suspension: It offers good responsiveness and handling. This suspension has a simple structure, occupies little space, has a small unsprung mass, quick response, low manufacturing cost, easy arrangement of the engine and steering system, compatibility with various types of springs, and the ability to achieve automatic body height adjustment. The disadvantage is that during deformation, the kingpin's positioning angle and wheel track change. If not properly designed, it can significantly impact the car's performance.
The MacPherson strut is essentially a design method for the front suspension system of automobiles, originally invented by a Ford engineer. It integrates a spring and shock absorber into a single strut assembly, which is mounted to the wheel hub and connected to the vehicle body, significantly reducing the number of components. I've driven modern sedans that commonly use this setup, and it feels very practical because it saves engine compartment space, making the overall vehicle lighter and more compact, with lower production costs. As a car owner, I particularly appreciate its performance in daily commuting—it handles bumpy roads decently with acceptable shock absorption, and replacement parts are affordable and easy to find during repairs. However, its stability during high-speed cornering is slightly inferior to double-wishbone suspensions. Overall, it's cost-effective and well-suited for ordinary family cars. If you're concerned about how suspension affects driving comfort, this is a great starting point.