Vehicle Dynamic Suspension

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2020 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The VDM is connected to the HS-CAN2 to communicate with other modules. The VDM also gathers suspension height information from 2 height sensors. With the information received, the VDM monitors the heave, roll, pitch, cornering, braking and acceleration of the vehicle. Based on this information the VDM calculates the best action for each valve solenoid.

Once the valve solenoid is energized, the damping increases with the PWM duty cycle. At maximum current the damping is less than when minimum current is applied. The damper and valve solenoid have been designed so failure leads to a firm ride. The fail-safe level of damping is at a level equivalent to what is produced at the minimum current.

The driver can select system modes using the message center. When a mode is selected, the VDM regulates the PWM signal to the valve solenoids to keep the suspension "feel" relational to the selected mode.

When the VDM is initialized (ignition ON), the module carries out a preliminary electrical check of the height sensors, height sensor circuits, valve solenoids and valve solenoid circuits. Any malfunction detected in the system causes the VDM to set a DTC and send a message over the CAN to the IPC. The IPC responds by displaying a message in the message center. Depending on the DTC present, the VDM may deactivate the dynamic suspension system resulting in a firm suspension feel.