The Effect of Poor Road Surfaces on Vehicle Suspension Geometry and the Misalignment of Setup Parameters

Year 2025, Volume: 9 Issue: 1st Future of Vehicles Conf., 28 - 34, 17.12.2025

Balázs Baráth

https://doi.org/10.30939/ijastech..1766086

Abstract

The continuous deterioration of public road surfaces significantly damages vehicle suspension systems, adversely impacting driving safety and controllability. This study aims to experimentally investigate the changes in suspension alignment parameters caused by poor road conditions. Measurements were carried out using a Volkswagen e-Golf test vehicle on road sections of varying surface quality, employing NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) sensors to capture the dynamic forces acting on the suspension and the resulting geometric displacements. The research provides a detailed overview of fundamental suspension alignment concepts, different suspension types and their adjustment capabilities, as well as the measurement equipment and methodologies applied. Based on the collected data, the effects of different road surface qualities on suspension parameters were compared, and the vehicle’s dynamic behaviour was evaluated. The results clearly demonstrate the correlation between surface-induced suspension geometry distortions and changes in driving stability. These findings highlight the importance of regular suspension inspections to maintain vehicle stability and minimize tire wear. Furthermore, the study offers insights that could support the refinement of suspension design guidelines and the development of more effective maintenance strategies. Such improvements could contribute to enhancing road safety, extending vehicle lifespan, and ensuring optimal handling performance under varying road conditions.

Keywords

Chassis geometry , Chassis inspection , NVH diagnostics , Wheel suspension

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