Shocks and struts are the mechanisms that cushion your car’s ride, making it easy to handle when driving.
However, it’s not just about comfort; these parts have much more to do with safety than most people realize. If they aren’t working, they can damage your tires, which means they won’t be able to grip the road in high-traffic situations. That could lead to an accident.
Here, we explore when to replace your shocks and struts to prevent issues on the road.
Struts vs. Shocks: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between struts vs. shocks is crucial when determining when to replace them.
Struts and shocks both help your vehicle perform better. However, they’re two different parts with different functions.
Struts are a major structural component of the chassis and vehicle suspension system, while shocks are individual components of the vehicle suspension system (which includes the shock absorbers, tires, linkages, joints, and bushings).
Struts help absorb road bumps and keep your vehicle stable by controlling the up-and-down movement of the coil spring system. When you hit a bump, fluid moves through the strut’s piston, absorbing all the shock from hitting the bump.
Meanwhile, shocks are part of the suspension system. They stabilize your vehicle when in motion, absorbing bumpy road vibrations and keeping you comfortable while reducing wear on other car parts.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Shocks and Struts
You may notice various signs that it’s time to replace your shocks and struts.
Change in Ride Quality
The first sign that something is wrong with your shocks or struts is a noticeable change in ride quality. If your car bounces more than usual when driving over bumps or potholes, it might be time for a checkup.
Unusual Tire Wear
One of the most common signs you need struts and shocks replaced is unusual tire wear. If your tires are wearing wavy rather than evenly, it’s a sign that the vehicle suspension system is not helping the tires to grip the road firmly.
Leaking Fluids Evident on Shocks and Struts Exteriors
You can tell if you need to replace your shocks and struts by looking for a few telltale signs. One of them is leaking fluid, noticeable on the exterior surfaces of your shocks and struts.
This indicates that seals within have broken, allowing the internal fluids in the shocks and struts that help them function to escape. This fluid loss can lead to an irreparable breakdown in your shock and struts.
Instability at High Speeds
Another sign that something is wrong with your shocks or struts is feeling like your car is bouncing more than usual when driving at high speeds. If this happens consistently, it could be time for new parts.
Rear-End “Squats” During Acceleration
If the front end of your car rises while the back end “squats” during acceleration, you may need to replace your shocks and struts. This happens because the struts lose their ability to control the movement of the suspension system as the vehicle accelerates.
Struts and Shocks Replacement Cost
While the struts and shocks replacement cost varies by vehicle, it’s common for the entire job to set you back $450 to $1,100 on parts and labor.
A complete strut and shock replacement cost is typically around $100 per shock and strut assembly, plus an additional $150 to $300 for labor.
Contact Us Today for Premium Auto Repair, Including Shocks and Struts Replacement
Are your shocks and struts making you feel a little worn out? It’s easy to neglect them, but they make a huge difference in how your car rides.
Welker Automotive offers quality shocks and struts replacement that keeps you safe and comfortable on the road.
Contact us at (407) 878-3738 for more information!
