Shocks have been around on cars and trucks since the beginning. Then sometime in the 70’s, struts started showing up on vehicles. The difference in design between the two is simple. A shock mounts on its own to do a job, with a suspension spring as a separate piece. A strut has an integral spring mounted with it. They both do the same job, but what job is that?
Anyone has been around for 4 or more decades, or has a parent that has, has probably seen the “bounce test”. Just push down on the bumper, and if the car stops after 3 bounces, then all is well. It was well though at that time that shocks and struts were simply for ride control and comfort. If you felt good going down the road and over bumps, the struts and shocks were fine. That is not the only job of shocks and struts. In fact, we are learning in the industry that that is not their job at all, merely a positive by product.
So what, you may ask, is so all fired important about struts and shocks that the dealers and parts makers suggest that they be replaced every 50,000 miles? The job of the struts and shocks is to provide maximum braking and steering control of your vehicle by keeping the tires in constant contact with the ground. Worn out struts and shocks will allow the tires to skip or hop up off of the pavement, there by reducing handling and braking. The problem for consumers is that cars and trucks are build for such comfort, that there are other systems in place to keep the comfort level up, so we don’t know when the struts and shocks are worn out. They will make noise if they break, but they can be worn out long before then.
How do you tell if it is time for a replacement? Your mechanic (hopefully that’s me, Hi.) can look at them and check for any leaks, but there are other ways. Wearing out brakes faster than before, thinking it’s just the way things are made today? Could be, but when the tires are not making full contact with the ground, more brake pressure is required to stop the vehicle, thus more brake wear. Also tire wear, cupping, outside feathering, chopping, all signs of the tire not running flat to the pavement. With the crazy tire sizes and prices the dealers are coming up with these days, it makes sense to have them last as long as possible.
So if you can get longer brake like, longer tire life, a safer and more controlled vehicle, and some extra ride comfort out of the deal, isn’t it worth having those pesky shocks and struts at least checked out. Your safety and your family’s safety depends on it, as well as those who drive around you.
