ADAPTIVE SUSPENSION

 Identified typically by electrical leads running from the inner wing into the damper unit, many adaptive suspension systems rely on applying electrical current to the strut. Typically, this is selected either automatically, or by depressing a ‘sport’ button. There are various iterations of these systems, such as Toyota’s TEMS (Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension), which uses actuators on top of the damper unit to turn a valve that directs the hydraulic oil through differently sized internal valves within the unit. Other systems vary the viscosity of special magnetic oil, which thickens when attracted to an electromagnetic field. Delphi’s Magneride is, probably the best example of this, used on models from Audi’s TT to JLR’S first-generation Evoque EUV (pictured). Should you suspect a problem with the adaptive suspension system, computer diagnostic equipment will be needed and you should suspect the simplest component first, such as a sensor, rather than changing a pair of expensive adaptive dampers without performing thorough checks.