What is the function of Prado KDSS?
4 Answers
The functions of Prado KDSS are as follows: 1. It is an adjustable damping stabilizer bar independent of the suspension system. During highway driving, it tends to be rigid, increasing the vehicle's lateral support force, reducing suspension travel, and improving driving stability. On off-road surfaces, it releases restrictions, increases travel, and enhances the vehicle's passing ability. 2. In KDSS conventional mode, when the vehicle is in a turning state, the outer suspensions of the front and rear wheels are compressed, and the inner suspensions are extended. This causes the stabilizer bar to twist, resisting body roll. The two pipelines connected between the two hydraulic pumps have no fluid flow, working like a normal suspension but effectively improving anti-roll capability. 3. When KDSS is in off-road mode, if one of the four wheels encounters an obstacle and is lifted, the suspension of the lifted wheel is compressed, and the stabilizer bar rises together with the hydraulic pump. Fluid flows between the two pipes of the front and rear hydraulic pumps, absorbing the twist of the stabilizer bar. Since the stabilizer bar does not twist, the suspension travel is larger than that of a normal suspension, and it can be adjusted according to different road conditions.
KDSS on the Prado acts like an intelligent butler, specifically managing the suspension system. When taking high-speed corners, it tightens the stabilizer bar to reduce body roll, making turns more stable. But once on off-road terrain, it loosens the stabilizer bar, allowing the wheels greater travel to climb over rocks or rough patches, improving off-road capability. This way, the vehicle performs comfortably on both paved and unpaved roads, avoiding excessive jolting. Additionally, it helps the Prado adapt to different loads—for example, a fully loaded trunk won’t cause the rear to sag too much. I find this system quite hassle-free because it adjusts automatically without manual intervention, saving fuel and reducing tire wear while making long drives more reassuring.
As a Land Cruiser Prado owner, I feel KDSS is like a little magic that makes driving smoother. When driving in the city, the body doesn't sway during sharp turns, and my kids don't get carsick in the back seat. On weekends when going to the mountains, the wheels can move more flexibly on rough paths, keeping the car closer to the ground and easily avoiding large rocks. Especially during heavy rain on slippery roads, the system automatically enhances stability, reducing the risk of skidding and giving me more confidence. After using it for several years, it has helped maintain the Prado's comfort—friends driving the same model without KDSS experience much more bumpiness. For me, it's a practical bonus feature.
KDSS is essentially the intelligent suspension controller for the Prado. It prevents rollovers on highways and enhances wheel freedom during off-roading, improving both comfort and safety. You won't have to worry about flipping when taking sharp turns at high speeds, and it provides more stability when driving through mountainous roads or bumpy terrain. Over time, it saves on tire wear and proves to be quite reliable.
