Did you know electric cars, aside from gas-powered engines, share almost the same parts and technology as conventional ones? Most parts of an electric vehicle, e.g., tyres, wheels, brakes, steering components, suspension, and infotainment system, are quite similar, with only a few upgrades to ensure they work seamlessly with the electric motors. Almost every new-generation car out there has an onboard computer system/chip that aids in making the car more comfortable, easier to drive, and safer too. The onboard computer uses sophisticated algorithms to monitor the car’s internals and the surrounding environment. Electronic stability control, or ESC, is an excellent example of shared electric components and systems that come in handy in keeping the car stable even in unpredictable road conditions, such as slippery roads. For any car fanatics I would highly recommend that you have a look at Koni online shop.
Why Do Vehicles Skid?
Loss of traction is a common cause of accidents on major roads. Although most vehicles will be stable at lower speeds, they certainly aren’t at higher speeds, especially on wet, icy, or even muddy roads. Loss of traction mostly leads to oversteer or understeer, forcing the car to spin around or want to go straight on.
How Does the ESC Help?
The electronic stability control uses sensors that detect the car rolling or leaning too far than it should, or when tyres start losing traction, automatically engages brakes on individual wheels to restore stability. The ESC applies just enough braking power to regain stability. ESC is a common safety feature on many vehicles in the United Kingdom. Although your car’s ESC system might be sound, the condition of the vehicle’s suspension and tyres can affect its effectiveness.
The ESC only works best when your tyres and suspension system are in sound condition. That said, the system will calculate and determine which tyre to brake, and at what intensity, then do so assuming the tyre has enough grip to facilitate braking and steering. If your tyres or suspension system aren’t in the best condition (for one reason or another), the car could skid dangerously when the corrective measure is executed. This is one of the reasons why proper and timely maintenance is needed. Always check your tyre pressure, treads, and condition before going for a drive.
Importance Of Good Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers are as important for stability control as good tyres. Shock absorbers not only absorb road imperfections but also help keep the tyre firmly on the road surface, hence providing enough traction. Most shock absorbers are basically made out of a coil and viscous oil. The coil springs compress to absorb road bumps and imperfections, while the oil ensures they recoil back to position smoothly without bouncing uncontrollably. These work harmoniously to ensure a comfortable ride while keeping the tyres firmly on the ground.
Worn-out shock absorbers cannot keep the tyre firmly on the ground, hence won’t provide the required support needed when the ESC comes into action. Without enough surface grip, the ESC would be useless as traction is almost negligible, increasing the risk of the vehicle skidding.
Although you might know this already, shock absorbers, like everything else, wear out over time. Your vehicle’s shock absorbers aren’t as efficient and sharp as they were when it was new. This is because hydraulic fluid used in shock absorbers loses viscosity due to continued compression and use, losing the required fluid resistance. The hydraulic fluid weakens, causing it to pass through the coil springs and compartments faster than necessary, making your suspension seem too soft. In the long run, the suspension loses its ‘firmness’, affecting the vehicle’s handling and ride quality. Getting the suspension system serviced as required or replacing worn-out ones altogether can help restore your vehicle’s stability and, essentially, a more efficient ESC.