What is Active Cornering Enhancement?

Cornering is unavoidable when driving. It can challenge both the driver and the vehicle, as it affects stability, and doing it recklessly can land you hefty repair and hospital bills. Fortunately, there’s a system that can make this tricky task easier.

Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE) is an advanced system that assists drivers with cornering. It helps improve handling and stability, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride for drivers and passengers alike.

But how exactly does ACE work, what benefits and drawbacks come with using it, and what are the signs your ACE system is malfunctioning?

How Does ACE Work?

ACE relies on sensors that detect body roll according to the vehicle’s movements.

Using the data, the ACE adjusts the suspension system to compensate for the lack of control, stabilizing the trajectory and minimizing the effect of lateral forces acting on the vehicle. This is accomplished through hydraulic actuators and active cornering enhancement fluid​.

Some ACE systems also make real-time adjustments to the suspension system using electronic actuators to reduce body roll.

Advantages of Using ACE

Many benefits come with using ACE, most of which improve the vehicle’s drivability.

Smooth and Comfortable Driving Experience

One of the biggest reasons people use ACE is to enjoy more comfortable drives. With reduced lateral movements and body roll, rides become smoother and more pleasant. You won’t have to worry about your vehicle suddenly shifting to the side and moving to other lanes against your will.

Improved Safety and Stability

ACE helps provide vehicles with the grip and traction they need to make sharp turns. In short, you’re significantly less likely to lose control and get into an accident when cornering.

Better Handling

Reduced body roll means drivers can enjoy better handling. The vehicle becomes more responsive and driving it feels tighter, giving way to smoother and more predictable driving.

Reduced Strain on Suspension

Another benefit that comes with using ACE is how it reduces the strain put on the suspension system. This means parts tend to last longer. The reduced strain also gives way to fewer trips to the mechanic for suspension repairs and maintenance.

Disadvantages of Using ACE

Though ACE offers a lot of benefits, there are also many drawbacks to consider.

Higher Maintenance Costs

One of the biggest drawbacks of using ACE is that it requires installing additional components in your vehicle’s suspension system. Not only does this make your suspension system more complex, but it also makes it more expensive to maintain and repair. You’re also more likely to spend more since it’s not a good idea installing cheap components on a vehicle – especially when you get what you pay for. You’ll also need to keep the computers updated.

Increased Vehicle Weight

More parts mean a heavier load for your vehicle, which can affect your driving experience. Depending on the weight added, you might experience changes in overall braking, acceleration, steering, drivability, and fuel efficiency.

Specialized Diagnostics and Repairs

Due to ACE’s complexity, dealing with it when it malfunctions can be tricky. You’ll need to find a mechanic who’s familiar with it if you want proper diagnostics and repairs.

Common Signs Your ACE System is Malfunctioning

Like any other car system, the ACE can act up or not work as intended. Because this system affects your ability to control and drive your vehicle, it’s important to know the various signs it’s malfunctioning and address them immediately.

Lit Warning Lights

The clearest way a driver can tell if there’s something wrong with their vehicle’s ACE is if the ACE warning light on the dashboard is illuminated. If this happens, it’s important to inspect your ACE or let a mechanic check the system.

Poor Handling

Installing an ACE system should improve your driving experience, not worsen it. If your vehicle feels less stable when driving or handles improperly when cornering, there’s a good chance there’s something wrong with the ACE.

Excessive Body Roll

Another clear indicator there’s something wrong with your vehicle’s ACE is if you experience excessive body roll when turning. The ACE minimizes body roll, so it might be faulty if cornering becomes difficult.

Suspension Noises

If you hear strange noises coming from the suspension system, there might be something wrong with your vehicle’s ACE. This is doubly true if these noises become more prominent when cornering. Take your daily driver to an auto repair shop for a proper diagnosis.