The Importance of Shocks & Struts Care

Your car’s shocks and struts are responsible for keeping your driving experience smooth and pleasant. Shocks and struts, which are part of your suspension system, help keep your vehicle balanced and in contact with the road. Faulty or worn shocks and struts are a safety issue that require immediate attention as soon as you notice a problem. 

Shocks and Struts

Your car’s suspension is made up of springs that absorb bumps. Struts support the springs, and shocks reduce the amount of bounce by absorbing the movement of the springs. Together, these components work to keep your drive smooth, even when the road is rough. For many drivers, the first signs that something is wrong with their car’s suspension are an unpleasantly bumpy ride and reduced handling capability. If it feels like you are bouncing along with your car when you strike a pothole, it’s a sign that your shocks and struts need to be inspected.

Issues with your shocks and struts don’t just result in a jarring driving experience though; they are also a safety risk. Depending on the severity of the problem with your shocks and struts, potholes or rough roads can cause your tires to bounce off the ground, resulting in poor handling, a loss of control and possibly even a car accident.

There are general timelines you can follow when it comes to replacing your car’s shocks and struts. The life of the components depends on how the car is used. If you are towing heavy loads or consistently driving on rough roads, you can expect to replace your shocks and struts around every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. If your car is used for more typical commuting and city driving, you should consider replacing the shocks and struts at 75,000 to 90,000 miles. Your vehicle’s manual will also have recommendations for maintenance timelines.

However, you should not rely entirely on your mileage. There are signs that mean your shocks and struts need to be replaced sooner. Look for these indications that something has caused premature wear or damage:

• Your vehicle exhibits instability at highway speeds
• Your vehicle leans or feels wobbly when turning
• Your front end dives severely when you brake hard
• During hard acceleration, the front end of your vehicle “rises” while the back end “squats”
• Your tires are worn unevenly
• Your tires bounce excessively after hitting a bump
• There is leaking fluid on the exterior of the shocks and struts
• You are experiencing poor steering response
• Your driving experience is jarring or stiff 

If you notice any of the above, it’s important to take your car to a local auto repair shop you trust. An expert technician will be able to inspect your vehicle’s suspension and identify which components need to be serviced or replaced. Normal wear and tear can result in problems with your shocks and struts, but damage or corrosion can also be at fault. 

Routine maintenance will help you get the most out of your vehicle’s shocks and struts. When you have your car serviced on a regular basis, you are more likely to catch minor issues before they become expensive repairs. Technicians can recognize when a part is due for repair or replacement, keeping your costs down and your car on the road for much longer. When small problems are allowed to worsen over time, they can result in dangerous driving conditions or the need for a new car.

At Boyce Auto Repair, our team will inspect your vehicle’s suspension system and recommend the best course of action to keep your ride smooth and safe. You can trust that you’re receiving high-quality, honest service, no matter what your vehicle may need. Give us a call or make an appointment today.