The rise in vehicle weight, primarily due to the substantial battery packs in EVs, is a significant contributing factor. These battery packs exert a constant load on steering and suspension components, especially during cornering, braking, or driving on uneven road surfaces. Consequently, there’s increased stress on joints, leading to accelerated wear and tear if the components aren’t adequately designed to withstand the load.
The RAC believes the UK has more than one million potholes – around one per mile on council-controlled roads in England and Wales – with the government holding a pot of £1.6 billion to tackle the issue for the rest of 20261.
Ill-advised driving and regenerative braking factors
The way an EV is driven can also affect steering components; for instance, electric motors deliver instant torque, which can generate sudden and repeated forces during acceleration.
In another example, regenerative braking, which is used more frequently in an EV than a conventional braking system, creates repeated deceleration forces. These are transferred through the chassis and steering system. Over time, these load patterns can hasten wear on tie rod ends, ball joints and related components, highlighting the importance of strong materials, accurate tolerances and robust manufacturing and testing.
Reduce early comebacks
Comline understands that reliable, easy-to-fit parts are important to both motor factors and workshops. By technicians fitting dependable steering and suspension components, motorists can expect their vehicle to maintain correct steering geometry and enjoy smooth handling behind the wheel.
Motor factors, meanwhile, should be confident of fewer returns, enabling smarter stock management and greater efficiency.
Comline continues to expand EV steering and suspension range
Comline has had its finger on the pulse for many years; it has been developing a range across all of its product groups to support emerging hybrids and EVs. Currently, there are more than 3,700 part numbers for these types of vehicles, with a dedicated development team adding new references every month.
Specific to steering and suspension, there are 1,300 hybrid and EV related references in Comline’s portfolio. These include tie rod ends, ball joints, control arms and bushings, stabiliser mountings and links, and axial joints.
Parts are manufactured using quality raw materials and subjected to a 900-hour salt spray test and 3 & 4 axis testing, to ensure that each part performs to the highest standard under pressure. As a show of confidence, Comline steering and suspension parts are supported by a three-year warranty.
