What Are the Signs that My Vehicle Needs New Shocks or Struts?

Strut Replacement Replacing struts used to be a dangerous job for a DIYer. But these days you can buy a complete strut assembly that eliminates the strut/spring/mount disassembly process. These assemblies allow you to replace both of your front struts yourself in less than two hours.

It takes about 2 to 3 hours to replace struts. The time to get the struts replaced depends on the skill level of who is replacing them and how rusted the bolts and joints are. When you have worn-out struts, you have to replace them because they can cause more damage.

1. Bumpy ride. The most obvious sign of a problem with your shocks or struts is that your car is giving you a much more uncomfortable ride than normal.
2. Steering problems.
3. Braking problems.
4. Fluid leaks.
5. Unusual tire tread wear.
6. Mileage.

The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And Struts

• Instability at highway speeds.
• Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns.
• The front end dives more than expected during hard braking.
• Rear-end squat during acceleration.
• Tires bouncing excessively.
• Unusual tire wear.
• Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts.

Shocks and struts help keep the vehicle stable during acceleration and braking. The customer may think that new shocks and struts will simply make their ride smoother, but the truth is that new shocks and struts can do a whole lot more. New shocks and struts can make a vehicle corner and brake like when it was new.

The shocks and struts improve the ride and reduce the bouncing caused by springs compressing and releasing so you don’t go boing-boing down the road. Don’t automatically point the finger at shock absorbers or buy a new set of replacement absorbers because new shocks are on sale at the repair shop.

Ask a Mechanic How Long Do Shocks and Struts Last On average shocks and struts can last 5-10 years or 50,000-100,000 miles under ideal driving conditions.

Bad struts can increase stopping distance by sometimes as much as 12%. At highway speeds, this can literally be the difference between life and death. New shocks will help your car braking at ultimate efficiency, keeping you and your passengers safe.

Struts are typically installed in conjunction with the front wheels, but depending on a vehicle’s setup and driveline, they can also be mounted at the rear wheels. Just as there are different types of cars, there are different types of struts.

Well, shock absorbers usually give you better handling, while struts give you a lower initial cost for the vehicle. If it continues to oscillate, the shock or strut on that corner of the vehicle is bad, and you always replace them in pairs, two fronts or two rears.