MacPherson Strut Suspension: Structure, Pros & Cons, Full List of Wear Parts

MacPherson independent suspension, abbreviated as MacPherson suspension, is a car suspension system named after MacPherson. It is mainly composed of spiral springs, shock absorbers, and triangular lower swing arms, and most models also add a lateral stabilizer bar. This suspension structure is compact, occupies small space, and has relatively low manufacturing costs, so it is widely used in front wheel drive vehicles and some rear wheel drive models.

The design concept of MacPherson suspension is to share a set of pivot points between the shock absorber and the coil spring, and integrate the lower control arm and the coil spring into a triangular structure to withstand the lateral impact and longitudinal force of the wheels. This design not only simplifies the suspension system, but also allows the engine hood to be designed lower to improve the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle body.

Strut / Coil Spring / Lower Control Arm / Stabilizer Link / Steering Knuckle / Brake Caliper

What Is MacPherson Independent Suspension?

MacPherson strut suspension is the most popular independent front suspension widely equipped on mass-market sedans and city SUVs, such as Toyota Camry XV70, Corolla and many passenger vehicles.

Different from non-independent suspension, the left and right wheels move independently. The bump on one wheel will not directly transfer to the opposite side.

Main Components of MacPherson Suspension

1. Strut Assembly (integrated shock absorber + coil spring). The strut works as steering kingpin.

2. Strut mount & thrust bearing

3. Bump stop, dust boot, spring insulator

4. A-shaped lower control arm with bushing & ball joint

5. Sway bar and stabilizer link

6. Steering knuckle

Advantages of MacPherson Suspension

1. Compact layout, saves engine bay space, perfect for front-wheel-drive vehicles.

2. Light weight with fewer components, lower manufacturing and maintenance cost.

3. Simple disassembly and convenient repair for auto workshops.

4. Balanced riding comfort for daily urban driving.

Disadvantages of MacPherson Suspension

1. Limited lateral rigidity. Larger body roll during sharp cornering.

2. The strut bears lateral bending force continuously, leading to higher risk of shock absorber oil leakage.

3. Obvious nose dive under heavy braking.

4. Not suitable for heavy off-road conditions.

Common Wear Parts for MacPherson Strut Suspension

1. Strut System

- Complete shock absorber / strut assembly

- Strut mount & thrust bearing

- Shock dust boot

- Polyurethane bump stop

- Upper & lower spring rubber insulator

2. Lower Control Arm Parts

- Control arm bushing

- Control arm ball joint

- Complete lower control arm assembly

3. Sway Bar Components

- Stabilizer link (sway bar link)

- Sway bar bushing

4. Auxiliary Fittings

Fixing nuts, gaskets, ball joint dust covers.

Bonpora supplies full-range aftermarket suspension spare parts for MacPherson strut. All parts follow OEM dimensions, fit Japanese, European passenger cars. Contact us for wholesale price and catalog!