Steering and suspension issues can be very specific, as Comline’s Senior Business Line Manager (Steering and Suspension) Chris Pegg observed: “When it comes to steering and suspension, for technicians the devil is often in the detail.” He continued: “One component that can pose challenges during replacement is the rear lower suspension arm on certain Audi, SEAT, Skoda and Volkswagen applications, specifically VAG Group part CCA3037. “The fitting bolts and nuts are often unsuitable for reuse. This can lead to unnecessary hassles, delays, and additional costs for technicians and vehicle owners alike. Fortunately, after receiving invaluable customer feedback, Comline has solved this dilemma by introducing rear lower suspension arms that include all the required fitting accessories, thus providing a solution to this problem. Comline also emphasises the importance of changing components on both sides of the vehicle when fitting suspension arms or track control arms.” Chris added: “By analysing real-world data on vehicle performance and part sales, our dedicated team can identify which components are in demand and tailor 40 AFTERMARKET NOVEMBER 2023 STEERING AND SUSPENSION www.aftermarketonline.net customers’ inventory accordingly. While components are not typically impacted by weather, factors like road conditions and driving style can lead to wear and tear. Again, Comline's data-driven approach allows them to anticipate these factors and provide their customers with the most suitable parts.” For more information, visit: www.comline.uk.com Technology EVs and hybrids are changing the steering and suspension landscape, as Mayur Chauhan, Senior Product Manager at FAI Automotive, observed: explained: “The suspension setups in many EV and hybrid vehicles are based on or are identical to those of the same model powered by petrol or diesel. Standalone EV models tend to replicate the traditional style setup including familiar parts such as springs, shocks, control arms and links. These traditional setups are often easier for manufacturers to incorporate as the absence of an engine creates space under the car. “Technology is set to change significantly in the coming years due to the development of regenerative suspension modules that use the movement of undulating roads to recharge batteries /extend range. EVs often have STAYING IN BALANCE Steering and suspension systems are changing, with greater responsiveness and the specific demands of EVs and hybrids driving the change at two ends Above: Tesla HD control arm from MEYLE
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