Handling is defined as the way your car 'handles' the road (hence the name). Far too many drivers assume their vehicle's lack of performance is due to low engine horsepower. While this is certainly a possibility, the problem could be related to poor handling and/or suspension.
So, how do you know if your vehicle is suffering from poor handling? If turning requires more space and time, chances are there's an issue with the handling. Another indicator is traction. Vehicles that constantly lose traction with the road typically have handling problems. The good news is that you can fix problems such as this fairly easily. Keep reading to learn more about how to improve handling and suspension in your car.
Arguably, the single most influential factor in a vehicle's handling are the tires. If you're driving around on worn-out tires, your car won't have to the same 'grip' and traction it needs with the road; therefore, the handling suffers as a result. Check the tread on your tires by performing the penny test. Stick a penny face down into the tread of your tires. If you can see any space above Abe's head, you need new tires.
Tread isn't the only thing you should check on your tires. Under or over inflation may also affect a vehicle's handling and suspension. Use a gauge to check the air pressure of your tires. Air gauges display pressure in a measurement known as 'pounds per square inch' or PSI. If you don't know how much air to place in your tires, check your vehicle owner's manual for more information.
Suspension are spring-like shock absorbers used to keep the vehicle on the ground. If you constantly run over pot holes and speed bumps, your suspension could be adversely affected. Take your vehicle into a local auto shop for a quick inspection. Most auto shops will perform a basic inspection free of charge.
Installing a sway bar underneath your car may also help to improve its handling and suspension. Although they are simple in design (a long metal bar), sway bars play a key role in a vehicle's handling. Once installed, the sway bar will transfer the force of a turn to the outside wheels. When you make a sharp turn, all of that force is transferred to the wheels; thus, offering better handling. Sway bars are beneficial for everyday driving, but they are particularly helpful for making sharp turns at a high rate of speed.
So, how do you know if your vehicle is suffering from poor handling? If turning requires more space and time, chances are there's an issue with the handling. Another indicator is traction. Vehicles that constantly lose traction with the road typically have handling problems. The good news is that you can fix problems such as this fairly easily. Keep reading to learn more about how to improve handling and suspension in your car.
Tires
Arguably, the single most influential factor in a vehicle's handling are the tires. If you're driving around on worn-out tires, your car won't have to the same 'grip' and traction it needs with the road; therefore, the handling suffers as a result. Check the tread on your tires by performing the penny test. Stick a penny face down into the tread of your tires. If you can see any space above Abe's head, you need new tires.
Tread isn't the only thing you should check on your tires. Under or over inflation may also affect a vehicle's handling and suspension. Use a gauge to check the air pressure of your tires. Air gauges display pressure in a measurement known as 'pounds per square inch' or PSI. If you don't know how much air to place in your tires, check your vehicle owner's manual for more information.
Suspension Checkup
Suspension are spring-like shock absorbers used to keep the vehicle on the ground. If you constantly run over pot holes and speed bumps, your suspension could be adversely affected. Take your vehicle into a local auto shop for a quick inspection. Most auto shops will perform a basic inspection free of charge.
Sway Bar
Installing a sway bar underneath your car may also help to improve its handling and suspension. Although they are simple in design (a long metal bar), sway bars play a key role in a vehicle's handling. Once installed, the sway bar will transfer the force of a turn to the outside wheels. When you make a sharp turn, all of that force is transferred to the wheels; thus, offering better handling. Sway bars are beneficial for everyday driving, but they are particularly helpful for making sharp turns at a high rate of speed.
