Shocks and Struts Replacement

The Difference between Shocks vs. Struts

Shocks and struts perform the same function but have different ways of going about it. Your car has either-or, not both. They both stabilize the vehicle and prevent the car from bouncing up and down while driving over road inconsistencies such as bumps or debris. Shocks attach to the wheels and integrate a moving shaft controlled by a high tension spring to absorb shock. Struts are mounted to the vehicle frame and axle, along with a suspension coil spring, which is more integral to the vehicle's structural support system and part of the alignment. Neither system is better or worse than the other; the vehicle engineer weighed the pros and cons of each and how they would affect the comfort and performance of each make and model of vehicle before deciding which would work best for the specific situation in which it was meant to be used.

Why Strut Replacement or New Shocks Might Be Needed

Because they each rely on tensioned springs, shocks and struts wear out over time as the steel in them weakens due to wear and weather. The weight of the car is bouncing those springs in and out every time you drive, and nothing undergoing such stress can be expected to last forever. Another situation in which they might be damaged is when they take an unusual stress level in one incident, such as running over a large pothole, hitting a piece of trash or litter left on the road, or after a traffic accident.

Symptoms of Bad Shocks and Struts

It isn't hard to notice when shocks or struts are going bad, as the most typical symptom is the ride begins to feel bumpy and uncomfortable when they aren't doing their job as intended. Poor gas mileage or problems with misalignment also tend to take place when struts are damaged. Shocks on the brink of collapse are likely to cause bad handling, especially when cornering. There might also be annoying noises, whether grinding or squeaking sounds. A final symptom may be that one side of the car sits higher or lower to the ground, but typically by that point, the car will be too uncomfortable for most drivers to use on a daily basis.