What is Car Body Roll? Reasons, Factors, and Solutions

Posted on: Jan 8, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

What is Car Body Roll? Reasons, Factors, and Solutions

A car body roll is a mechanism that prevents a moving vehicle from toppling over when taking sharp turns. It involves making the vehicle lean on one side and then adjusting to the weight distribution when the vehicle makes a sharp turn.

Why Does Body Roll Happen in a Car?

A car body roll happens in most vehicles but is commonly seen in bigger cars like SUVs. Hatchbacks experience a lower roll since the vehicles are smaller. There are some very logical reasons as to why a car experiences body roll. Some of them are:

1. Laws of physics

As per the laws of physics, a body keeps moving in the same direction while in motion, unless an opposing force is applied. So, when the car makes a turn, it continues to move in the original direction while the opposing force is applied. This leads to the car’s body to roll or lean over to one side.

2. The centrifugal force

Centrifugal force is the outward force which is applied to a mass that is moving on a curved road. When the car moves a corner, this force compels it to swivel in the opposite direction, leading to the body rolling in the car.

3. Design of the car

And finally, the design of the car plays an important role here. The suspension system of the vehicle, the addition of springs, etc go a long way in determining how much the vehicle’s body rolls when manoeuvring curves.

As you can see, the mechanism of a body roll in a car is quite logical and helps in the car’s stability and safety. However, it should be at the correct level to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle.

What Factors Contribute to the Increased Car Body Roll?

1. Centre of gravity

The centre of gravity (COG) has an impact on the car's body roll. If the COG is higher, the vehicle will roll more as compared to vehicles with a lower COG.

2. Suspension system

If you have a new and well-maintained car with a properly functioning suspension system, you will notice less body rolling. This is because a good suspension system offers better balance and keeps the vehicle steady when taking sharp turns.

3. Weight of the car

A heavier vehicle always experiences greater body roll. This is the reason why many manufacturers rely on lightweight materials to use in cars as that reduces the body roll to quite an extent.

4. Shock absorbers

A well-maintained and properly functioning shock absorber in the car can reduce body rolling. This is why it is important to send your car for servicing regularly and keep all its systems in optimal condition.

5. Tyres

The tyres of the car go a long way in ensuring its safety and stability. If the tyres are worn out or the threading is incorrect, the body roll will increase and vice-versa.

6. Condition of the roads

Smooth roads, free of potholes, always make for better driving. If you get to drive your vehicle on a good road, even making sharp turns will become a lot more comfortable.

7. Speed when turning

When you drive at a higher speed, the lateral force also increases and this makes the car tilt a bit too much when taking a sharp turn. Hence, maintain a proper speed and try slowing down when you need to make a turn. This will ensure lower body roll and will also make your trip a lot safer.

How Can I Stop My Car from Rolling in Corners?

While excessive body rolling isn't quite desirable, some amount of it is normal and an essential part of driving. A car body roll happens due to the laws of physics and you cannot quite stop it completely. However, you can improve the situation and reduce the rolling to a comfortable and bearable extent.

To achieve this, you must get your car serviced regularly. You must look to get the tyres and the suspension system fixed, if there is any issue. You should also improve your driving skills and ensure you maintain proper driving speed. These small measures can go a long way in reducing the car’s body roll.

The role of insurance

You need to invest in a good comprehensive car insurance plan as soon as you get your vehicle. Car insurance helps to keep the vehicle in optimal condition. If you experience any problems with the suspension system or the brakes, you can send your car to the nearest garage and get the issues fixed. This will help reduce the car’s body roll and lead to a safe and comfortable driving experience.

It is very easy to buy car insurance these days. You can go online and make a quick purchase. Choose good comprehensive coverage from a reliable insurer like HDFC Ergo and keep your vehicle in the best condition. Go through the available options and make a smart choice.

Apart from body roll-related issues, a car insurance plan also offers protection from other perils such as accidental damages and theft, and helps to keep the vehicle safe at all times. This is why it is crucial for you to get car insurance as soon as you buy your vehicle.

Conclusion

As you can clearly see from the points mentioned above, body rolling is a normal phenomenon experienced in most vehicles. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs experience more body rolling as compared to smaller vehicles like hatchbacks. The rolling depends on various factors such as the centrifugal force and COG, along with vehicle-related issues such as faulty suspension systems. You can reduce the rolling to a certain extent, but you cannot stop it completely. Drive safely and get a good car insurance plan to ensure you and your vehicle stay protected at all times.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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