Shocks-Struts: Honest Answers Why They Are Important
Manufacturers generally recommend replacement of shocks- struts at around 50,000 miles. However, on this vehicle we noted significant leaking of oil around the strut. Be aware that shocks and struts don’t just go “bad” one day, but lose their effectiveness over time and accumulation of miles. Since this change happens rather slowly, you may or may not notice the change.
Shocks and struts will wear more quickly depending on where and how you drive. What is the purpose of struts and shocks? Struts are an integral part of the suspension system, actually bearing the weight of the car. The front shocks/struts have greater load bearing carrying the weight of the engine. Shocks absorb the bumps in the road, helping the car find its equilibrium quickly after you hit a bump to stop the bouncing.
When our Technicians put your car up on the lift and examine the shocks-struts, we look for damage on the shock or strut, or tears in the protective “boot”. When it tears or disintegrates, the dirt that gets in will make the shocks wear more quickly. Another thing we check for is leaking. You would not notice leaking, because they usually do not drip onto the ground, but coat the entire assembly and will collect dirt.
Once a shock is leaking, the performance will diminish rapidly. Further damage could occur (& be more expensive) if a shock or strut is not replaced when leaking or damaged. Shocks-struts are replaced in pairs (both sides of front or rear axle) in order to keep an even stress. It is highly recommended to do an alignment after replacement to ensure everything will drive nice and straight.
Vehicle maintenance, like replacing shocks-struts, help keep your vehicle running smoothly, with fewer “surprise” repairs. We strive to keep you informed regarding needed maintenance for your vehicle.
Posted By
Owner
Patrick has over 43 years of experience in the automotive field.
After graduating from the University in 1983, he chose to continue the family business. He is a registered Emissions Technician, he has earned his Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) degree through the Automotive Management Institute and served on the Automotive Service Association (ASA) board of directors for 6 years.
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John Doe
Thanks for sharing! Now I know everything about the replacement of shocks-struts and the maintenance of my vehicle.
Kathy Gordon
Thanks for sharing! Very informative article!