Suspension Terminology

3. The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side; affects stability and steering return.
6. The fronts of tires closer together
8. The inward or outward tilt of a wheel when viewed from the front.
10. System, The collection of parts (springs, shocks, linkages) that connects a vehicle to its wheels and allows relative motion for comfort and control.
12. Height, The distance between the vehicle’s body and the ground.
14. The fronts farther apart

1. camber, The top leans outward
2. A structural component that combines a shock absorber and spring into one unit, often part of the steering system.
4. Arm, Connects the wheel hub to the vehicle frame and allows up-and-down movement.
5. Joint, A pivot point that connects control arms to the steering knuckle, allowing movement in multiple directions.
7. camber, The top of tire leans inward
9. A rubber or polyurethane cushion that reduces friction and vibration between suspension parts.
11. Supports the vehicle’s weight and absorbs bumps. Types include coil springs, leaf springs, and torsion bars.
13. Absorber, Controls the motion of the springs by slowing down bouncing and oscillations.
14. The direction tires point relative to each other when viewed from above.