If you're playing Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 and see "Suspension Part Not Discovered" when trying to repair a car, you're not alone. This message pops up when the game doesn't have that specific part loaded into your inventory or store. It is frustrating, but usually fixable. Read on to understand why this happens and what you can do to get the suspension parts you need.
Why Does "Suspension Part Not Discovered" Appear?
Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 uses a discovery system for many car parts. Early in the game, you only have access to basic components. As you gain experience, new parts become available. Suspension parts, like control arms, shock absorbers, springs, and struts, are often locked until you reach certain levels or complete specific tasks.
When you open a job and the required suspension piece shows "Not Discovered," it means your in-game progress hasn't unlocked that part yet. The game intentionally hides some parts to encourage you to keep playing, level up, and explore the salvage yard.
How to Unlock Suspension Parts
There is no single trick to unlock all suspension parts instantly. Instead, you need to progress naturally. Here are the most reliable ways:
1. Level Up Your Mechanic Skill
The most straightforward method is gaining experience by completing jobs. Each job gives experience points, and each time you level up, the game may unlock new parts. Focus on jobs that involve suspension work when possible. Even simple oil changes help, but suspension-focused jobs accelerate the unlocking process.
2. Visit the Salvage Yard Frequently
The salvage yard is where you can find used parts, including rare ones. Sometimes, a suspension component that is "not discovered" in your store can be found as a used part in the salvage yard. Check the salvage yard after every few jobs. Look for parts that match the car you are working on. Even if the part is damaged, you can repair it in your workshop. This can bypass the discovery lock for that specific part.
3. Complete Story Missions and Barn Finds
Some parts are tied to specific story missions or barn finds. Progress through the game's story line and accept all barn find challenges. These often reward you with new parts or unlock them in the store. Pay attention to the in-game notifications when you complete a mission – they sometimes mention new parts unlocked.
4. Purchase the Right Workbench Upgrades
Your workbench affects which parts you can install. If you haven't upgraded your suspension workbench, higher-tier suspension parts will remain undiscovered. Invest in workshop upgrades as soon as you have enough cash. The suspension workbench upgrade is particularly important for unlocking advanced components like adjustable coilovers or heavy‑duty springs.
Troubleshooting: What If You Still See "Not Discovered"?
Sometimes even after leveling up, you might encounter a suspension part that isn't unlocking. Try these steps:
- Check your current level: Open the skill menu and see what parts are listed as available at your level. If the part is not listed, you may need a few more levels.
- Restart the game: A simple restart can refresh the item database. Save your game, exit completely, and launch again. Sometimes the game fails to update part availability correctly.
- Verify game files (PC only): If you are on Steam, right‑click the game, select Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files. Corrupted files can cause parts to not appear.
- Reinstall the game: As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall. This forces the game to re-download all part data. Be sure to back up your save files first.
Common Suspension Parts and How to Get Them
Here are specific suspension components that often cause trouble:
- Control Arms: Usually unlocked around level 5–7. If not, try buying them used from the salvage yard.
- Shock Absorbers: Basic shocks are available early, but performance shocks require higher level. Check the salvage yard for donor cars.
- Struts: Struts are frequently locked until later levels. Completing the "Muscle Car Restoration" mission often unlocks them.
- Sway Bars: These appear after you upgrade your suspension workbench to level 2.
- Coil Springs: Unlock by reaching level 10 or by finding them in barn finds.
Practical Tips to Avoid This Problem
- Always check the store before starting a job: Look up the required parts in the store. If any are "not discovered," choose a different job until you unlock them.
- Focus on one car type at a time: If you jump between different brands, you may face more undiscovered parts. Stick to common American or European cars early on, as their parts are unlocked sooner.
- Use the test track: Driving a car after repair sometimes triggers parts to become available. Not always, but worth trying.
- Join the CMS 2018 community: Other players have compiled lists of what parts unlock at each level. A quick search can save you time.
Final Recommendation
The "Suspension Part Not Discovered" message is a sign to slow down and enjoy the game's progression system. Instead of rushing, take time to level up, visit the salvage yard, and upgrade your workshop. If you are stuck on a specific job, abandon it temporarily and work on others. The part will eventually become available. For the most efficient path, combine leveling with regular salvage yard trips. If you still cannot find a part after many hours, consider reinstalling the game, but this should be rare. Remember, the game is designed to unlock parts gradually – patience is key.