List of Electric Car Terms for New Users

The suspension system is one of the most crucial components in maintaining driving comfort and stability, especially if you own an SUV designed for large capacity, family use, and diverse road conditions. This system absorbs shocks, maintains balance, and ensures the tires stay firmly in contact with the road surface.

Although SUVs are known for their toughness, their suspensions still require regular maintenance to maintain optimal performance. For those who frequently drive on uneven city roads or semi-off-road terrains, proper suspension care will greatly enhance both comfort and safety while driving.

This article provides a simple, practical guide on how to maintain your SUV suspension for longer lifespan and maximum comfort. From checking shock absorbers to the importance of wheel alignment and balancing, here are key steps you can follow to keep your SUV’s suspension in top condition.

1. Check Shock Absorbers Regularly

Shock absorbers are the main dampers that stabilize your vehicle when driving over bumpy or uneven roads. If they start to weaken, you’ll notice excessive bouncing, “thudding” sounds underneath the car, or visible oil leaks around the suspension area.

This usually happens due to loosened bolts or joints. If you spot signs of leakage or damage, have your car checked by a trusted mechanic immediately to avoid further issues. Generally, shock absorbers should be inspected every 10,000–20,000 km, and replaced every 50,000–80,000 km depending on driving conditions.

2. Avoid Overloading the Vehicle

Every SUV has a maximum load capacity set by the manufacturer. Exceeding this limit can shorten the lifespan of the suspension and place excessive strain on the undercarriage components. As a result, springs may sag faster, shock absorbers wear out prematurely, and ride comfort decreases.

For example, the Chery Tiggo 9 CSH, a seven-seater SUV, is designed to carry families and luggage comfortably over long trips. Meanwhile, the Chery J6 is ideal for semi off road use thanks to its strong and stable suspension structure. Still, avoid overloading to keep the suspension performing optimally.

3. Inspect Bearings and Bushings Regularly

Bushings act as dampers that reduce vibrations and noise between metal components in the suspension system. Bearings, on the other hand, reduce friction between moving parts and help stabilize the vehicle’s load.

Always ensure both components are in good condition, especially rubber bushings that may crack or harden over time. If they wear out, the car may vibrate, make unusual noises, or feel unstable when cornering. Routine inspections during scheduled maintenance help detect wear early.

4. Perform Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Wheel alignment and balancing are crucial for ensuring the wheels and suspension system are properly aligned. When the wheels are misaligned, the suspension works unevenly, accelerating tire and shock absorber wear.

Common signs your car needs alignment include a heavy steering feel, drifting to one side while driving straight, or noticeable vibrations at high speeds. By performing alignment and balancing every 10,000 km or after long trips, you can maintain both driving comfort and suspension longevity.

5. Use the Recommended Oil and Components

Shock absorber oil and replacement parts such as springs, bushings, or bearings should always meet manufacturer specifications. Using non-standard oils or parts can alter the suspension’s characteristics and reduce ride comfort.

For instance, Chery’s modern SUVs are equipped with MacPherson Strut, Torsion Beam, and Multi-Link Independent suspension systems designed to deliver premium-level comfort. Proper maintenance using the recommended components and fluids ensures these systems remain durable and perform optimally.

Why SUV Suspension Maintenance Matters?

Suspension is not just about comfort, it’s a critical safety component that ensures vehicle stability and control. It absorbs vibrations, distributes vehicle weight evenly, and keeps the tires in full contact with the road.

When neglected, worn suspension parts can make the car feel harsh and unstable, accelerate tire wear, reduce fuel efficiency, and even affect steering performance. Regular suspension maintenance not only preserves comfort but also ensures safety and efficiency on any road condition.

Signs Your SUV Suspension Needs Service or Replacement

If you notice any of the following while driving, it’s time to schedule a check-up at your car dealer or service center:

• Unusual noises from underneath the vehicle
• The car feels wobbly or unstable
• Steering feels imprecise
• Tires show uneven wear

Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage and compromise safety. Besides reducing comfort, worn suspension parts can affect other components as well. Regular inspections will help ensure your SUV stays in excellent condition.

If you own a Chery SUV, you can easily have your suspension inspected and serviced at the nearest authorized Chery dealer. Skilled technicians will ensure your vehicle’s suspension system performs according to factory standards, backed by attractive after sales support for every model. This way, you can enjoy a smooth, stable, and safe driving experience on all types of roads.

A spacious cabin, capacity for up to seven passengers, and large cargo space are some of the key advantages of SUVs. With these benefits, many people wonder how to save fuel when driving an SUV, especially when it’s used for daily commuting. SUVs are known for their power and comfort, but their fuel consumption is generally higher than smaller cars due to their heavier weight and larger engines. Combined with city traffic and frequent congestion, fuel expenses can quickly rise if not managed properly.

Fortunately, there are several ways to save fuel in your SUV without sacrificing comfort or performance. From simple driving habits to regular maintenance and taking advantage of modern vehicle technology, you can make your SUV more efficient. Here are some practical tips to get started.

1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve fuel efficiency is by keeping your tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

You can check tire pressure at gas stations or use a portable pressure gauge. Keep it within the ideal range (typically around 32–35 psi, depending on the SUV model). Check your tires every two weeks or before long trips. Proper tire pressure not only improves fuel efficiency but also extends tire life and maintains vehicle stability.

2. Avoid Sudden Acceleration

Aggressive driving habits such as hard acceleration or sudden braking can significantly increase fuel consumption. The engine burns more fuel to produce quick bursts of power.

Try to drive smoothly and maintain consistent speed. This not only makes your drive more comfortable but also reduces stress on the transmission and brakes. Many modern SUVs come with an Eco Mode feature that adjusts engine output for smoother, more efficient throttle response, especially useful in heavy city traffic.

3. Watch the Vehicle Load

The heavier your car, the more fuel it consumes. Avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or installing heavy accessories like roof boxes or spare tire mounts unless needed.

Although SUVs are designed to handle heavy loads, carrying excessive weight puts extra strain on the engine and suspension. This not only reduces fuel efficiency but also accelerates wear on key components. Always bring only what’s necessary for your trip.

4. Perform Regular Maintenance and Oil Changes

Never skip oil changes during maintenance. Dirty or overly thick oil increases engine friction, forcing it to work harder and burn more fuel. Most modern SUVs now use low friction synthetic oil, which improves both engine performance and efficiency.

Synthetic oils (for turbocharged engines) provide better protection under extreme temperatures while also extending engine life and ensuring stable performance under various driving conditions.

5. Use the Right Driving Mode for the Road

Many modern SUVs come with multiple driving modes such as Eco, Normal, and Sport. Each mode adjusts the engine’s performance and responsiveness.

• Use Eco Mode for daily city driving to maximize efficiency.
• Normal Mode is ideal for highway trips, offering a balance between power and fuel economy.
• Sport Mode should only be used when maximum performance is needed, such as overtaking or driving uphill.

Selecting the right mode helps optimize fuel use without compromising comfort

6. Take Advantage of Start-Stop Engine Technology

Start-Stop systems automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle stops at traffic lights or in jams, then restart it when you press the accelerator. This feature helps reduce fuel waste during idling.

Several modern Chery SUVs are already equipped with this technology, helping drivers save more fuel in congested city areas and making their drives more efficient.

7. Avoid Long Idling

Leaving your engine running while stationary still burns fuel unnecessarily. If you’re waiting for more than three minutes, such as in a parking lot or rest area, it’s better to turn off the engine. This simple habit can save a few percent of fuel over time, especially useful for SUV drivers who often take long trips.

8. Use the Recommended Fuel Type

Using the wrong fuel grade can reduce engine efficiency, cause knocking, and even damage the combustion system. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended octane rating (RON) for your SUV.

While high-octane fuel may cost slightly more, it ensures cleaner combustion, better performance, and long-term engine protection. Over time, this can reduce maintenance costs and maintain optimal performance.

By following these tips, you can identify and reduce the habits that waste fuel in your SUV. Remember, fuel efficiency isn’t just about the engine or technology, it also depends on your driving behavior.

For a more efficient and eco-friendly driving experience, consider modern SUVs from Chery, which feature Eco Mode, electric SUV, and hybrid systems, and intelligent technologies designed to support a smart and energy saving lifestyle.

In driving, visibility is one of the key factors for safety. One essential component that plays a major role in this aspect is the car mirror. Although it may seem simple, the function of car mirrors is crucial for helping drivers monitor their surroundings without having to turn their heads too often.

 

Unfortunately, many drivers still don’t fully understand the function of car mirrors or how to adjust them properly. Even a small mistake in mirror positioning can create blind spots, increasing the risk of accidents. Through this article, you will learn about the main functions of car mirrors and easy steps to adjust them for a wider view, making your driving experience safer and more comfortable.

1. Helping Monitor the Vehicle’s Sides

Car side mirrors, located on both the right and left sides, allow drivers to observe traffic conditions when overtaking or changing lanes. Before driving, always check that both side mirrors show a balanced reflection of your vehicle’s sides and the surrounding road to minimize blind spots.

In most modern cars, side mirrors can be adjusted electronically using a button near the driver’s seat. This makes mirror adjustments more precise and convenient.

2. Expanding the Field of View

Another key function of car mirrors is to extend the driver’s visibility range. However, standard mirrors can still leave certain areas unseen, known as blind spots. To cover these areas, many drivers add small convex blind spot mirrors to their side mirrors.

Chery SUVs are already equipped with Blind Spot Detection (BSD) as part of their ADAS feature suite. This system activates a signal when it detects another vehicle in the blind spot area. Its four main benefits include:

• Warning the driver when another vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
• Assisting during lane changes.
• Providing alerts while parking to prevent collisions.
• Reducing the risk of accidents caused by unseen vehicles.

3. Viewing the Rear Without Turning Your Head

The main role of the rearview mirror is to help drivers monitor vehicles behind them without turning around. This is especially useful when driving straight, changing lanes, or reversing.

Ideally, the rear window should be fully visible in the center of your mirror without needing to change your seating position. Always keep your mirror clean, as even small smudges or dust can affect clarity especially when driving at night.

4. Improving Parking Efficiency

When parking, mirrors help drivers gauge the distance between their car and surrounding objects such as other vehicles, road barriers, or sidewalks. By using both the side and rearview mirrors, drivers can perform parallel parking more efficiently and safely.

Many modern cars now feature reverse cameras or 360° view cameras integrated into the mirror system or head unit. Chery’s latest SUV models even offer a 540° view camera, as seen on the Chery E5. This feature provides real-time visual coverage of the car’s surroundings, making maneuvering much easier.

In addition, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system enhances safety when reversing from parking spots with limited visibility. Rear sensors detect oncoming vehicles from either side and issue visual or audio warnings when a collision risk is detected. This feature has proven effective in preventing minor parking accidents, especially in crowded locations such as malls or office buildings.

5. Enhancing Driving Comfort

Beyond safety, the function of car mirrors also contributes to overall driving comfort. Properly adjusted mirrors reduce the need for frequent head turns, minimizing neck strain and allowing better focus on the road.

Some premium SUVs are equipped with electrochromic mirrors and heated mirrors, which prevent fogging and maintain clear visibility in cold or rainy weather. This shows that mirrors are not just accessories but essential components that significantly improve both comfort and safety during every journey.

Types of Modern Car Mirrors

1. Auxiliary Mirrors

Attached to the exterior mirror, these help widen the field of view by showing objects not captured by the main mirror. Ideal for minimizing blind spots, especially in dense traffic conditions.

2. Electric Mirrors

Allow automatic mirror adjustments via buttons inside the car. Some models also include heating functions to remove fog, maintaining visibility in colder climates.

3. Auto-Dimming Mirrors

Modern mirrors with light sensors that detect excessive brightness from headlights behind. The mirror automatically dims to prevent glare, ensuring clear and comfortable vision during night drives.

Tips for Proper Mirror Adjustment Before Driving

To maximize the function of car mirrors, follow these simple steps:

• Adjust your seating position first before setting the mirrors.
• Make sure the rear view mirror shows the full rear window.
• Set side mirrors so that a small part of the car body is visible, while maintaining a wide view of the road beside it.
• Check from several head positions to ensure no major blind spots remain.
• Use the automatic folding mirror feature when parking in tight spaces.
• Avoid touching the mirror glass directly and clean it regularly to prevent blurriness.

Common Mistakes in Mirror Adjustment

Many drivers still make small but impactful mistakes, such as:

• Angling mirrors too far toward the car body, limiting the side view.
• Misaligning the rearview mirror so it doesn’t reflect the rear window properly.
• Forgetting to readjust mirrors after changing the seat position.
• Ignoring or failing to activate available blind spot detection features.

By understanding the function of car mirrors and how to adjust them correctly, you can drive more safely, comfortably, and efficiently. Modern mirror systems continue to evolve, offering advanced visibility and smarter safety support.

Features like Blind Spot Detection, 540° view cameras, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert found in Chery SUVs demonstrate how cutting edge technology can reduce accident risks and make driving more intuitive.

If you want to experience how these technologies work in real world conditions, try a Chery SUV test drive and feel the comfort, safety, and advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) support that enhances your everyday driving experience.