Quick question: do you prefer an air spring or coil spring? Why? Do you find it difficult to answer? Well, you’re not the only one that can’t decide which is better. Actually, tensions between the coil spring and air spring suspensions have been high for decades. Supporters of each side hold their own beliefs on which solution performs better. In today’s article, vigorairride air suspension will give you some ideas to consider about which to pick.
The general idea of these two springs
In the past, suspension systems normally used gas-filled shocks or struts. Yet, these days, air suspension systems are becoming more common in cars. Well, it’s not only popular in luxury cars anymore. Also, it’s easy to see it as an upgrade feature on regular commute cars.
We’ve seen both sides of the thing and find it hard to believe people don’t persuade each other. Well, in fact, they don’t need to. Because each spring, air spring, or coil spring has its own benefits and drawbacks.
While suspensions come in many shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: They provide a smooth ride. They all come with struts. Let’s have a look at them both to see what they have in common.
What is air spring suspension?
In fact, air spring suspension is one vehicle suspension option. It works to fulfill the same purpose as other suspensions that we call conventional ones to do. Air spring suspension systems are different from coil spring suspension. Instead of using coil springs, there are air springs for each of the four corners.
An air compressor is a producer to supply pressurized air. Then an air tank will be there to save the air the compressor has inflated. To raise the vehicle to the desired height, the compressor and air tank will provide more air to each bag. Also, it will decrease air pressure if necessary to lower the vehicle’s height. Thus, your suspension will adjust for your weight and any cargo or passengers.
Air spring vs. coil spring
These two springs have two main differences. In fact, the rubber bags are the main difference between these two. While coil spring and spring are two different things, they both complete the same job.
In fact, through the management of the air pressure, they can expand and contract, absorbing bumps. At the same time, they can adjust to the desired height based on specific needs. For example, they adjust according to the road conditions and the loads it’s carrying. Besides, it has an impact on the handling.
About ride height
There are ups and downs. We all know that the spring adjusts the ride height to suit the coil or air. However, they finish the job differently.
Air suspensions allow you to loosen the collars and adjust the spring’s height. This will be necessary for coilover setups. This is not required for an air suspension system. After you’ve done this step, your electronic control unit will inflate and deflate the air spring to the desired ride height.
Air suspension works better when it comes to reducing vibration
As to damping adjustments, air spring suspension and coilover don’t show much difference. Actually, any suspension system can adjust the stiffness or flexibility of the struts to suit the driver’s needs. Every suspension kit has struts. Both air spring and coil spring can ensure ride comfort since they have adjustable features. Yet, airbags are obviously more flexible and softer. As a result, air suspension works better in this aspect.
How do you install these suspension systems?
They’re similar in installation. This means that you will need new factory struts. This is it for the coil. But, the installation of the air spring is just beginning. It is up to you to manage the air springs. You will also need the electrical lines to power the whole system. Thus, air suspension installation is more expensive and can be more complicated.
Air suspension has many benefits, however, if you look deeper.
Air spring will produce less vibration
In fact, air spring enhances both the driver’s comfort and that of the passengers. Less noise, vibration, and harshness will make your ride more enjoyable.
Air spring causes less harm to other components. Air spring suspension ensures your vehicle’s components last longer. Airbag suspensions are also more durable. When the car is experiencing less vibration and harshness, it suffers from less damage. The same holds true for all other components of the vehicle.
Lower fuel consumption with air spring
Air spring suspension systems adjust ride height based on vehicle speed and load. Because empty vehicles place less strain on the air springs, they are able to sit higher. Then, this can decrease wind resistance. As a result, a lower ride height gives the vehicle a more aggressive look. Also, it presents better fuel economy.
Air springs can better deal with higher speeds while cornering. It seems useless, but it saves time commuting on roads with multiple turns.
Get a longer tire service life
Because they absorb less vibration, a more efficient suspension will cause less damage to tires. In other words, this means that other parts of the vehicle, including tires, will perform well longer.
Air springs will cause less damage to roads and loads
Air springs ensure a smooth ride with less vibration so that it causes less damage to the roads. Also, the buildings nearby suffer less from vibration and noise.
As a result, the cushioning air spring protects the loads from being broken in bad road conditions.
Conclusion
Air spring or coil spring? It’s not about right or wrong, or which is better in general. In fact, what suits your car and your needs is the better choice. What do you think? Since each has benefits and drawbacks, either can be better when you see it in different aspects. Thus, let’s stop the argument, just go with the proper one that meets your requirements and preferences. Enjoy your ride with whatever spring systems you prefer!
