Vehicle Dynamic Suspension

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Lincoln MKC. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The VDM is connected to the HS-CAN to communicate with the ABS module, the PCM and other modules. With the information received, the VDM monitors vehicle roll, pitch, cornering, braking and acceleration. 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 minimum current the damping is less than when max 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 higher currents, but it is not the same as the maximum current.

The driver can select 1 of 3 preset system modes (Comfort, Normal or Sport) 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), it 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 HS-CAN 2 to the GWM. The GWM then sends a message to the IPC over the HS-CAN 3 and the IPC responds by displaying a message in the message center.

Depending on the DTC present, the VDM may deactivate the dynamic suspension resulting in a firm suspension feel.