Modern cars tend to use the same sorts of suspension systems, with one of the most common in the industry being the MacPherson strut, named after its inventor.
Perhaps you’re on your way to buy a new car, and you may not know it yet, but a suspension is just as important as other key components, such as the engine, powertrain, and braking system. Top mechanic-approved tips for buying a used car almost always include a pointer on how to check worn-out suspension components, wheel bearings, and other parts. If you are eyeing a front-wheel drive vehicle, it’s very likely that it is equipped with a MacPherson strut suspension, the most common assembly for FWD cars.
Invented by Earle S. MacPherson, the MacPherson strut suspension is a type of independent suspension design that combines the shock absorber and coil spring into a single unit. Theoretically, the system is engineered to ensure stability and comfort during driving by supporting the vehicle’s weight, absorbing road shocks, and helping maintain tire contact with the road.
