Controlled compression and rebound: the multi-link independent suspension
The series-production launch of the Mercedes-Benz 190 in 1983 also marked the beginning of the multi-link independent suspension's career. In many respects this is a feature that remains without parallel to this day, which is why this patented axle principle - naturally in a modified form - is also employed in the C-Class. With the multi-link independent suspension the wheel is fixed to five elastically mounted links that are independent of each other and which restrict its scope for movement in five directions:
The lower transverse control arms activate the suspension springs and dampers
The upper transverse control arms regulate the camber over the spring travel
The torque struts take up the drive and braking forces, and compensate for dive
and squat when accelerating and decelerating
The diagonal struts are arranged differently from the torque struts, and also
help to prevent dive and squat when braking and accelerating
The track rods limit changes in the wheel's toe-in to a desirable minimum
Owing to this intelligent control arm construction, each rear wheel basically retains freedom of movement in one plane only: namely during controlled compression and rebound.
See also:
Headlamp cleaning system
The headlamps are cleaned automatically if
the "Wipe with washer fluid" function is
operated five times while the lights are on and
the engine is running. When you
switch off the ignitio ...
Cornering light function
The cornering light function improves the illumination of the road over a wide
angle in the direction you are turning, enabling better visibility in tight bends,
for example. It can only be acti ...
Information for customers in
California
Under California law you may be entitled to a
replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the
purchase price or lease price, if after a
reasonable number of repair attempts
Mercedes-Benz USA, L ...