Procedure to verify the suspension system on periodical motor vehicle inspection

The suspension system of a vehicle is an essential element which assures driving safety and passenger comfort. The shock absorbers are the key component of this system. A worn out damper reduces the tyre-road contact, resulting in increased stopping distances. Similarly, lateral stability may be compromised as a result of uncontrolled rolling movements. In order to maintain safe driving conditions, it is essential to verify the status of the suspension system during Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspections (PMVI) using efficient procedures. The current method to verify the suspension system at PMVI stations is not reliable. This paper proposes a procedure that uses a new test bench that allows to know the real status of the suspension system of a vehicle and is based on identifying the damping ratio of the shock absorbers. Proposed procedure has been validated by experimental tests.