There are two major types of front suspension systems. In the conventional system, springs are used to absorb the energy from the wheels and support most of the car weight. They compress to absorb impact and extend to release itl. Either coil springs (most common, look like oversized metal Slinkies) or torsion bars (a long spring steel rod which takes the place of a conventional spring and absorbs motion by twisting) are typically mounted between the frame and the lower control arm (metal arm that attaches to frame by rubber bushings and to the steering knuckle by ball joints). Ball Joints are the connecting ball-and-socket joints of the steering and suspension systems. They allow the steering components to move up and down as well as side-to-side. Shock absorbers are hydraulic units that dampen the vibrations of the springs.
Some vehicles are equipped with round steel strut rods that are attached between the lower control arm at one end and the frame of the vehicle with rubber bushings to provide forward/backward support to the control arms.
The sway bar, also known as a stabilizer bar, is made of spring steel and mounts to the frame. The ends of the sway bar are connected to the lower control arms with stabilizer links. The sway bar helps reduce vehicle lean during cornering.
Most front wheel drive vehicles use the MacPherson strut system which combines the coil spring and the shock absorber into one component. The internal shock absorber dampens movement of the spring as it compresses and rebounds during vehicle travel. The strut housing serves as a structural part of the suspension system and connects the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint so that the entire assembly can pivot when the steering wheel is turned.
Most vehicles generally use either coil, leaf spring or MacPherson strut suspension systems. Leaf springs absorb the motion of the wheels as the uneven strips of metal of which they're made flatten and unflatten. These are used on many 4 wheel drive vehicles.
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