Do I Need New Shocks And Struts?

It is important to know the signs that indicate that your vehicle’s shocks and struts need to be replaced. If you don’t replace them when it is needed, it can lead to serious damage to your vehicle.






Shocks and struts work together in your vehicle to help dampen spring oscillation, and help with ride control. Without these parts, your vehicle would not have a smooth ride, especially when going over bumps.

Here are some signs that you might need new shocks and/or struts:
• The vehicle rolls or sways on turns
• The front-end of the vehicle dives when braking
• The rear end of the vehicle squats when accelerating
• The vehicle bounces or slides sideways on a winding, rough road
• The vehicle “bottoms out” (with a thump) on bumps

The best way to be aware of the condition of your shocks and struts is to have them checked out every time you have an oil change. Ask the shop to take a look at your vehicle’s shocks and struts and in particular have them pay attention to:
• Leaks on the housing
• Dents on the shock or strut body
• Worn rubber mounting bushings
• Pitted piston rods
• Crushed rubber bumpers from “bottoming out”
• Abnormal wear on tires (high and low spots)

With care your shocks and struts should stay in working condition. Try and avoid hitting pot hole, slow down on rough roads, and have your struts and shocks checked periodically.

Strut and shock replacement is relatively expensive, due to the amount of labor typically required to remove and replace the parts, and the cost of the parts themselves. In addition to the struts, it may be necessary to replace one or more strut mount, which only adds to the cost.