What is the Difference Between Non-Independent Suspension and Independent Suspension?
4 Answers
The following are the differences between non-independent suspension and independent suspension: 1. Different advantages: Advantages of independent suspension: Lightweight, reduces the impact on the vehicle body, and improves the ground adhesion of the wheels; Advantages of non-independent suspension: Simple structure, low cost, high strength, easy maintenance, and minimal changes in front wheel alignment during driving. 2. Different disadvantages: Disadvantages of independent suspension: Complex structure, high cost, and inconvenient maintenance. Disadvantages of non-independent suspension: Poor comfort and handling stability. 3. Different categories: Independent suspension includes MacPherson strut independent suspension, multi-link independent suspension (four-link, five-link independent suspension), and double-wishbone independent suspension. Non-independent suspension includes torsion beam non-independent suspension (Watt's linkage suspension) and trailing arm non-independent suspension (semi-independent torsion beam suspension).
I've driven several cars and noticed a significant difference between non-independent and independent suspensions. Non-independent suspensions typically connect the wheels to a single axle, like the old Japanese car I drove with a torsion beam rear suspension. When going over speed bumps or rough roads, the body shakes noticeably, and if one wheel hits a bump, the other is affected too, making it quite uncomfortable. Independent suspensions allow each wheel to move independently. For example, the German SUV I drive now handles rough roads effortlessly, with each wheel able to absorb shocks individually, providing a smooth and quiet ride. However, independent suspensions are more expensive. For daily city driving, they might not be necessary, but their advantages are obvious on long trips or uneven terrain. Considering both comfort and price, I recommend choosing a non-independent suspension for city commuting to save money, while an independent suspension is more worthwhile for frequent travel.
Non-independent suspension fixes the left and right wheels together like a rigid axle, where moving one side causes the other to sway as well, commonly seen in torsion beam setups. Independent suspension, on the other hand, allows each wheel to move freely without interfering with the other, such as in double-wishbone or multi-link designs. Structurally, non-independent suspensions are simpler and sturdier, while independent ones are more complex and precise. The driving experience differs significantly: non-independent suspensions offer clear road feedback but are harsher over bumps, causing the whole car to bounce over rough patches; independent suspensions are more flexible, absorb shocks better, and provide greater stability during high-speed cornering. Economically, non-independent suspensions save on materials and maintenance costs, making them common in compact cars, while independent suspensions are pricier but enhance handling, favored by off-road or sports vehicles. During test drives, I clearly preferred the comfort of independent suspensions.
Simply put, non-independent suspension shares a common bracket for the wheels, where movement of one affects all, while independent suspension allows each wheel to move independently. The advantage of non-independent suspension is its simple structure, compact size, and lower cost, making it common in compact family cars to save chassis space. However, its downside is stronger vibration transmission, leading to a less comfortable ride. Independent suspensions, such as MacPherson or multi-link setups, allow each wheel to react individually, providing better shock absorption and stability over bumps, making them suitable for luxury cars or SUVs. They enhance comfort and handling but are more complex and expensive. Personally, I find independent suspension smoother for city driving in narrow streets.
