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Unsprung weight of a car: meaning and explanation
The unsprung weight explained
This guide explains all you need to know about the unsprung weight of your car and how it differs from the sprung weight. This is important as it can have a direct impact on the vehicle’s handling, braking performance, fuel efficiency, and suspension.
What is the unsprung weight in a car?
The best way to answer this question is to first explain the difference between sprung and unsprung weight.
Unsprung weight vs sprung weight:
• Unsprung
The unsprung weight or mass refers to the total weight of the vehicle’s components that are not supported by the suspension springs. This includes parts of the wheel assembly, the brakes, tyres, drive axles, differentials, steering knuckles, and so on.
A high unsprung weight can make the suspension less effective at maintaining road contact and stability on uneven road surfaces. Excessive weight can also lead to longer handling response times and increased body roll, as well as potentially longer braking distances due to a higher required force. A lower unsprung weight is therefore associated with a better handling and braking performance, improved fuel consumption, and better ride quality.
• Sprung
In contrast, the sprung weight of the vehicle is the total weight of the parts that are supported by the car coil springs or whatever type of suspension springs are used. This includes the engine and exhaust, chassis and body parts, interior and electrical components, and more.
A heavier sprung weight means more strain on the suspension parts, including the springs and shock absorbers, consequently affecting their longevity. On the other hand, a heavier sprung weight can help ensure better contact with the road.
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How to reduce the unsprung weight of a car
If your vehicle’s unsprung mass or vehicle weight is too high, you may find that it doesn’t accelerate as well or respond as quickly to the steering system. Not only this, but it could be a risk to your safety due to its negative impact on the vehicle’s stopping distances.
One way of reducing the vehicle’s unsprung weight is by replacing the wheels or brakes and other parts for lighter components. For example, car owners may choose to switch to forged aluminium wheels. However, it is important to remember that it is not just about materials but also size and fit.
For instance, the wheels may be wider or the tyres may be heavier, leaving you with the same outcome as before. It is also necessary to ensure that the parts are compatible with your vehicle and will be durable and reliable. Lightweight composite brake discs made from materials like carbon or aluminium are also a popular choice for reducing the unsprung mass more conveniently. You may also decide to swap the fasteners with durable lightweight alternatives.
Suspension tuning
If you want to improve handling characteristics, you can also upgrade or tune your suspension. Tuning usually involves making small adjustments to the ride height, spring stiffness, and the damping resistance of the shock absorbers, for example. You may choose to buy new car shock absorbers or even switch to an air suspension, depending on what your budget and goals are.
Some drivers choose to upgrade to an air suspension or ride height adjustable system to adapt better to changes in terrain and loads, allowing for smoother handling and reduced body roll. This may also provide greater stability when towing or hauling heavy loads.
The important thing to check is whether the new aftermarket components are compatible with your vehicle and whether they can withstand the loads and weight of the vehicle. You should also consider whether the investment is cost-effective for achieving your goals. To find compatible parts, simply enter relevant keywords online, e.g. “VW Polo shock absorber” or enter vehicle specific data including the VIN and OE part number.
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