Shock & Strut Repair & Replacement
The shocks or struts on your vehicle help to stabilize your vehicle’s movement. This means they enhance the control you have when your vehicle turns, brakes, accelerates or drives on uneven surfaces. Some vehicles utilize only shocks while other vehicles may utilize both. So, what are the differences between shocks & struts? Shocks are an independent component of your vehicle’s suspension system and struts are a combination of shocks and other features within a structural unit. How long the shocks or struts will last on your vehicle also is greatly determined by a number of outside factors. If you often drive on uneven, rough, or bumpy surfaces, tow a trailer, or carry heavy loads your shocks or struts usually need to be replaced every 40,000-50,000 miles or sooner. Should you drive under normal conditions with no real heavy towing or large load-carrying your shocks and/or struts should last on average from anywhere between 70,000 and 90,000 miles.
How Do I Know If My Shocks/Struts need to be Replaced?
Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you are in need of shock or strut replacement. In most cases, there is an array of different signs that you may experience one or more of. These signs include:
- You Notice Instability At High Speeds
- Your Vehicle Tips To One Side When You Make Turns
- The Front End Rises While The Backend Squats During High Acceleration
- After Hitting Any Bumps You Feel Your Tires Bounce Excessively
- Unusual Tire Wear
- Any Visible Leaking Fluid On Shocks or Struts
Should you experience any of the above signs or issues it is always best you have your vehicle looked at sooner rather than later by a certified auto repair specialist. The longer you wait the more damage that can be done. And even more importantly, any issues with your vehicle’s suspension system can be extremely dangerous to both you & your passengers and others out of the road. Replacing any worn or damaged shocks/struts can also help to ensure your tires wear evenly and won’t need to be replaced as well.