What is bumpsteer?

Bumpsteer is a term used in automotive engineering to describe the movement of the front wheels of a vehicle as a result of vertical suspension movements. It refers to the tendency of the wheels to steer themselves when the suspension is deflected, typically when hitting bumps or uneven road surfaces.

Bumpsteer can occur when the suspension and steering components are not properly aligned, leading to unwanted steering inputs and potentially affecting the vehicle's handling and stability. It can cause a vehicle to pull to one side or feel unstable during cornering or braking.

There are various factors that can contribute to bumpsteer, including improper suspension geometry, inadequate control arm lengths, mismatched components, or worn-out suspension bushings. When the suspension compresses or extends, these alignment errors can cause the wheels to change toe angle, resulting in steering movement.

To minimize or eliminate bumpsteer, suspension components should be carefully designed and aligned, ensuring that the suspension movement does not induce unintended steering inputs. This can be achieved by carefully adjusting suspension geometry, control arm lengths, and tie rod positions, among other factors.

Bumpsteer can be a concern in high-performance vehicles and racing applications where precise and consistent steering response is critical. Proper suspension setup and periodic inspection of suspension components are important to maintain optimal handling and safety.