What GM vehicles have magnetic ride control?
Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) is an advanced suspension system developed by General Motors (GM) that provides superior ride quality and handling in select GM vehicles. This cutting-edge technology uses electromagnetic shocks to continuously adjust the suspension in real-time, delivering a smooth, responsive driving experience.
What is Magnetic Ride Control?
Magnetic Ride Control is an active suspension system that uses sensors to continuously monitor the road conditions and driver inputs. The system adjusts the damping of the shock absorbers almost instantly, providing optimal ride comfort and handling. This is achieved through the use of a special fluid inside the shock absorbers that contains iron particles. When an electric current is applied, the fluid becomes thicker, allowing the shocks to adjust their firmness accordingly.
GM Vehicles with Magnetic Ride Control
Magnetic Ride Control is available on a variety of GM vehicles, including:
- Chevrolet Corvette: MRC has been a standard feature on the Corvette since 2003, providing exceptional handling and responsiveness for this iconic sports car.
- Cadillac CT4 and CT5: These luxury sedans from Cadillac offer MRC as an available option, delivering a smooth, controlled ride.li>
- Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: The latest full-size pickup trucks from Chevrolet and GMC can be equipped with MRC, improving both ride quality and towing capabilities.
- Cadillac Escalade: The flagship Cadillac SUV features MRC as a standard feature, providing a premium driving experience even in a large, heavy vehicle.
Magnetic Ride Control is a testament to GM's commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional driving dynamics across its vehicle lineup. By continuously adapting to road conditions and driver inputs, MRC helps ensure a smooth, responsive, and enjoyable driving experience.
Which cars have MagneRide suspension?
Many performance and luxury cars use magnetic suspension, including the Chevrolet Corvette, Cadillac CTS-V, Ford Mustang GT350/GT500, Chevrolet Silverado, and various models from Audi, Ferrari, and Lamborghini. Brands like Land Rover and Acura also offer it on some of their vehicles, such as the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque and Acura NSX.
You can watch this video to learn how the magnetic suspension system works in a Porsche: 58sThe ShellYouTube · Dec 19, 2023
Examples by manufacturer
- Cadillac: Available on most modern Cadillac models, including the CT4, CT5, and Escalade.
- Chevrolet: Found on the Corvette, Camaro SS and ZL1, Silverado, and Tahoe/Suburban.
- Ford: Standard on the Mustang Shelby GT350 (2015–2020) and GT500 (2020–2022), and the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse.
- Audi: Featured on models like the TT and R8.
- Ferrari: Used on models such as the 599, California, and La Ferrari.
- GMC: Available on the Sierra and Yukon.
- Land Rover: Offers the technology on the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque.
Key takeaways
- What it is: Magnetic suspension uses a special fluid with magnetic particles that can change viscosity (thickness) when an electric current is applied. This allows the system to rapidly and constantly adjust the stiffness of the suspension for a balance of comfort and handling.
- Benefits: It provides a smoother ride by reacting to road imperfections in real-time and improves handling by keeping the vehicle stable during turns and braking.
- Availability: While initially a feature for high-end sports cars due to its cost, it is now found on a wider range of performance and luxury vehicles, as well as some trucks and SUVs.
This video explains how the magnetic suspension system works in a Porsche: 43sCNETYouTube · Feb 3, 2016
How do you know if you have magnetic ride control?
You can tell if your vehicle has Magnetic Ride Control by checking the original window sticker, looking for wiring harnesses and sensors on the suspension components, checking the car's driving mode settings, or by inspecting the lower control arm springs. For some models, like GM vehicles, a code on the Service Parts Identification (RPO) label inside the glove box indicates the feature.
This video demonstrates how to visually inspect a Mustang to see if it has MagneRide: 40sSteedaYouTube · May 16, 2024
Check the vehicle's settings and paperwork
- Window sticker or VIN: The original window sticker will list "Magnetic Ride Control" or the specific system name as an option. If you don't have it, a dealer can look it up using the VIN.
- Driving mode settings: Check the infotainment system or dashboard for drive mode options that include suspension adjustments, such as "Sport" or "Tour" modes. If you can change the damping, you have the system.
- GM RPO code: For GM vehicles, look for the "Z55" code on the Service Parts Identification (RPO) label inside the glove box.
Visually inspect the suspension
- Wiring harnesses: Look for extra wiring coming from the struts and shocks. On MagneRide-equipped cars, a wire or harness will be visible coming out of the shock/strut tower or a special bracket, often wrapped in heat-resistant material.
- Ride height sensors: Check for ride height sensors, which are small electronic components that may be attached to the control arms.
- Springs: For certain vehicles, like a Mustang, check the rear lower control arms for the spring. If the spring windings are opposite on each side, it indicates MagneRide.
- Specific part: For Mustangs, the strut will have an additional control line coming from the bottom of the strut to a harness, and a ride height sensor on the lower control arm.
Does GM still use MagneRide?
MagneRide was first used by General Motors in the 2002 Cadillac Seville STS. Currently, it is used throughout GM's model portfolio either as an option or as standard equipment on various Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicles.
What Chevy vehicles have magnetic ride control?
Magnetic Ride Control is a key feature in several Chevrolet models, including the Corvette, Camaro, Tahoe, and Suburban. It enhances both performance and comfort, making Chevrolet vehicles stand out for their smooth, responsive rides.
