MERCEDES W204 Suspension Parts - Mercedes-Benz C-Class Parts

The Mercedes-Benz W204, which is part of the C-Class range produced from 2007 to 2014, features a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort, handling, and stability. Below is a detailed overview of key suspension parts typically found in the Mercedes W204:

Suspension System Overview The W204 uses a multi-link suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing precise handling and comfort by allowing each wheel to move independently. This design helps to improve ride quality, reduce body roll, and enhance overall driving dynamics.

Control Arms (Upper and Lower): Control arms connect the wheels to the vehicle’s chassis and allow for up and down movement of the suspension. The upper and lower control arms in the multi-link setup help keep the wheels aligned while absorbing shocks from road imperfections. These are often fitted with rubber or hydraulic bushings to reduce vibrations.

Ball Joints: Ball joints serve as pivot points between the control arms and steering knuckles, allowing the suspension to move up and down while the wheels turn left and right. Upper and lower ball joints are crucial for smooth steering and proper suspension articulation.

Bushings: Suspension bushings, made of rubber or polyurethane, are used at the joints of control arms and other suspension components to cushion and reduce vibrations between metal parts. They help absorb shocks and reduce road noise. Over time, bushings can wear out and may need replacement to maintain a smooth ride.

Struts (Front): The front suspension of the W204 includes struts, which combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. Struts not only absorb shocks but also help support the weight of the vehicle and keep the tires in contact with the road.

Coil Springs: Coil springs are essential for supporting the vehicle's weight and providing a smooth ride by absorbing road impacts. The front and rear coil springs are wound from steel and allow the suspension to compress and extend as the vehicle encounters bumps or uneven surfaces.

Shock Absorbers (Rear): Unlike the front where struts are used, the rear suspension typically uses separate shock absorbers. These hydraulic dampers help control the oscillation of the coil springs and ensure that the vehicle remains stable by reducing bouncing after hitting a bump.

Anti-Roll Bar (Sway Bar): The anti-roll bar, or sway bar, is a metal bar that connects the left and right sides of the suspension. It helps reduce body roll during cornering by distributing the force between the two sides of the car. The W204 has both a front and rear anti-roll bar, connected to the suspension via end links.

Suspension Mounts: Suspension mounts are used to attach components like struts or shock absorbers to the chassis. These mounts are often equipped with rubber bushings to absorb vibrations and ensure a quiet and comfortable ride. Strut mounts in the front are particularly critical, as worn mounts can cause noises and poor handling.

Tie Rods: Tie rods are part of the steering system but play a critical role in maintaining proper wheel alignment as they link the steering rack to the steering knuckle. Inner and outer tie rods ensure that the wheels turn in response to driver input while maintaining suspension geometry.