Your vehicle’s suspension system helps keep your tires on the road. There are safety ramifications to consider when driving with old shocks or struts which cause a rough ride. It's not always simple to tell when shocks or struts need to be replaced either, as you get used to how your vehicle handles. Your shocks and struts can become worn or damaged and must be regularly checked to ensure your safety and comfort on the road. If your vehicle is not maintaining good contact with the road, your steering, handling, and even braking can all be negatively affected. Knowing what to look out for and what to do next is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s optimum performance.

WHAT DO STRUTS AND SHOCKS DO?

Shocks and struts are two separate components with different purposes. Both components aim to improve the ride and handling of your vehicle, but they do so in different ways. While struts are a significant structural element of the chassis and suspension system, shocks are discrete parts of the suspension system. The shock absorber's primary function is to regulate spring and suspension motion. Struts, on the other hand, support the spring, retain the tire in alignment, and provide structural support for the vehicle suspension. They also support a large portion of the side loads on the vehicle’s suspension. Struts consequently impact ride quality and handling as well as vehicle control, steering, braking, wheel alignment, and wear on other suspension components.

SIGNS OF WORN SHOCKS AND STRUTS

There are many indicators that your shocks or struts need repair. These problems can be minor at first and grow over time. These issues include:

• Steering problems
• Bumpy or even ride
• Braking problems
• Unusual tire wear
• Fluid leaks
• Bouncy tires
• Overall instability

These issues could indicate that you need suspension repair. Depending on the severity of these issues, you may need to seek immediate professional assistance from our automotive repair shop, as this can be a safety issue.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU CONTINUE TO DRIVE ON DAMAGED STRUTS AND SHOCKS?

If you continue to drive on damaged or faulty struts or shocks, you could endanger yourself. Maintaining traction is crucial, especially when navigating obstacles or keeping up with highway traffic. Your suspension components will deteriorate over time. It might even deteriorate without your knowledge. Additionally, it may result in your tires and other components wearing down more quickly. This can result in your vehicle’s longevity being diminished as well. To avoid this, come to our automotive repair shop, where our expert technicians can provide you with quality shock and strut repair!