What Does Suspension Stiffness Adjustment Mean?
2 Answers
Suspension stiffness adjustment refers to the regulation of a vehicle's suspension comfort level, which typically includes three modes: Normal, Sport, and Comfort. These modes cater to different needs of the driver at various levels. The driver can easily switch between modes by operating a switch to adapt to different road conditions, making the operation relatively convenient. The adjustment of suspension stiffness is achieved by the control unit regulating the adjustment valve on the shock absorber, thereby controlling the internal hydraulic circulation of the shock absorber to change its damping coefficient. The primary purpose is to ensure a balance and switch between the vehicle's handling and comfort. It is important to note that the stiffness adjustment of the chassis suspension is distinctly different from the height adjustment of the chassis suspension. Height adjustment, commonly found in air suspensions, is designed to improve the vehicle's off-road capability by increasing ground clearance or to enhance handling by lowering the center of gravity, with these two aspects being mutually exclusive.
As a veteran driver with nearly two decades of experience, I rely heavily on suspension stiffness adjustment in my daily driving. Simply put, it allows the suspension system to be tuned softer or firmer to adapt to different driving scenarios—for instance, setting it softer when driving in the city reduces excessive jolting, making the ride more comfortable; while firming it up on highways or during turns keeps the car planted like it's rooted to the ground, significantly boosting safety. This is typically electronically controlled, with some vehicles featuring air suspension that automatically senses road conditions and adjusts spring damping, making it effortless and worry-free. I often soften the suspension when taking family outings—less sway in the back seats means the kids sleep more soundly; on rainy days with slippery roads, I stiffen it to enhance grip and prevent skidding. This feature is common in many SUVs and premium sedans, and personally, I consider it a great ally in elevating driving comfort.
