Power-off damping in MR damper

This invention relates generally to a damper for use between corresponding parts as in a vehicle suspension application. In particular the invention deals with magneto-rheological fluid dampers and their ability to provide dampening characteristics in various power states. A magneto-rheological (MR) damper provides a higher than minimum level of damping when a power source to the MR damper is not supplying a control current. The present invention damper includes magnets positioned to direct a magnetic flux across a MR fluid path. The fluid path is created when a rod and piston assembly stroke the fluid though a control valve assembly attached to a damper chamber causing a resistance to MR fluid flow. An electric coil cancels an effect of the permanent magnets when the control current is available to allow a control circuit more operating range. The permanent magnets allow for damping when no control current is available.