Suspension and Steering System Maintenance and Repair

What is the Difference Between Hybrid, Electric and Conventional Vehicle Suspension and Steering Systems?

Suspension and steering systems on hybrid, electric and combustion engine vehicles are fundamentally the same. This means that the same maintenance and inspections are required for all types of vehicles.

However, there are some important suspension differences:

• Hybrid and electric vehicle batteries are heavy, and the total weight of these vehicles can be 25% higher than conventional vehicles.
• Hybrid and electric vehicle batteries are often placed under the car or integrated into the chassis, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling.
• The high torque of electric motors place greater demands on the suspension components of hybrid and electric vehicles.

Regular Inspection of Suspension Components is Essential

Regular suspension component verifications help to identify any potential problems early on, avoiding more extensive damage and costly repairs later. This is particularly important for hybrid and electric vehicles, as worn suspension components can increase rolling resistance, reducing electric-only range and increasing energy consumption.

What’s more, a well-maintained suspension system helps to improve handling and stability, which in turn enhances safety on the road. Since hybrid and electric vehicles place greater stresses on their suspension, it’s essential to pay particular attention to suspension components.

Steering Components Are Similar to Those of Conventional Vehicles

Your driving style and the environment in which you drive your vehicle will have a considerable impact on these components. As with conventional cars, cold and humidity accelerate the wear of all rubber bushings, and can subsequently corrode electrical or internal components.

Most modern vehicles use electric steering racks, which may not be repairable or serviceable. Any damaged joints will allow moisture to penetrate the system and corrosion to spread. The cost of replacing a steering rack can run into thousands of dollars, so checking steering components is crucial.

During the inspection, our NexDrive experts will check the wear of the main suspension and steering components and carry out a diagnosis of all safety components, including bushings, ball joints and other safety-related parts.

What Happens if Your Hybrid or Electric Vehicle Hits a Pothole?

As with all vehicles, have your vehicle inspected for damage and the wheel alignment tested if your vehicle is driving differently or making strange noises when accelerating or turning.  If your vehicle’s suspension alignment has been altered, it could accelerate wear on tyres – and your wallet.

In addition, there is a real risk of damage to the high voltage battery after hitting a pothole or other road hazard, as these battery packs are sealed at manufacture. If the casing is damaged and no longer watertight, leading to moisture ingress, this can cause catastrophic failure of the battery.

If you suspect the underside of the vehicle has been hit by something, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.