Shocks and struts are essential components of your vehicle’s suspension system. While they serve similar purposes, they differ in their design and functionality.
Shocks, also known as shock absorbers, help control the up-and-down movement of the suspension. This is done by dampening vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces. They absorb and dissipate the energy generated when the springs compress and rebound, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Struts are integrated components that include the shock absorber, coil spring, and other structural elements. Struts dampen vibrations and support the vehicle’s weight, providing structural stability and control. They play a crucial role in maintaining proper wheel alignment and ensuring predictable handling.
Both shocks and struts contribute to the suspension system by:
Absorbing Impact: Shocks and struts absorb the energy generated when the tires encounter bumps, potholes, or other road imperfections. This reduces the impact the vehicle and its occupants feel, enhancing ride comfort.
Maintaining Tire Contact: By controlling the movement of the suspension, shocks and struts help to keep the tires in constant contact with the road surface. This improves traction, stability, and overall handling.
Preventing Body Roll: Shocks and struts minimize body roll during cornering and maneuvering. They help distribute the vehicle’s weight evenly, keeping it balanced and stable and reducing the risk of rollovers.
Regular inspections of shocks and struts are crucial to ensure optimal performance and safety. While there is no fixed interval for replacement, it is generally recommended to have them inspected by a professional every 80,000 km or as advised by your vehicle manufacturer. However, the inspection frequency may vary based on driving conditions and the overall condition of the suspension system.
If any signs of wear or damage are detected during the inspection, it is advisable to replace the shocks and struts promptly. Additionally, if you notice any symptoms of a failing suspension system, such as excessive bouncing, unstable handling, or uneven tire wear, you should have them inspected immediately, regardless of the mileage.
Several indicators can suggest that your shocks and struts are worn out and require replacement:
Excessive Bouncing: If your vehicle bounces excessively after going over bumps or dips, it indicates that the shocks and struts are no longer effectively dampening the suspension movement.
Unstable Handling: If your vehicle feels unstable, rolls excessively during turns, or exhibits a drifting sensation, it may be a sign of worn-out shocks and struts.
Nose Diving or Rear Squatting: When braking, if your vehicle’s nose dives forward or the rear end squats down excessively, the shocks and struts no longer provide proper control.
Uneven Tire Wear: Worn-out shocks and struts can cause uneven tire wear, typically characterized by bald patches on the tread or excessive wear on the edges.
Oil Leakage: Visible oil leaks on the shocks or struts indicate internal seal failure, compromising their performance.
Driving with worn-out shocks and struts can have several negative consequences:
Reduced Ride Comfort: Worn-out shocks and struts are unable to absorb vibrations and impacts from the road effectively. This leads to a harsh and uncomfortable ride, with increased jolts and vibrations felt inside the vehicle.
Compromised Handling and Stability: Worn-out shocks and struts diminish your vehicle’s ability to maintain proper control during turns, maneuvers, and sudden stops. This compromises handling, increases body roll, and decreases overall stability.
Extended Braking Distances: With worn-out shocks and struts, your vehicle’s weight shifts excessively during braking, leading to longer stopping distances and reduced braking efficiency.
Accelerated Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear caused by worn-out shocks and struts reduces tire lifespan and compromises traction and safety.
Increased Risk of Accidents: The compromised handling, stability, and braking performance resulting from worn-out shocks and struts increase the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations.
During a shocks and struts service, our skilled technicians will thoroughly inspect the components, assessing their condition and functionality. They will check for signs of wear, leakage, or damage. If replacement is necessary, the worn-out shocks and struts will be removed and new ones installed. The suspension system may also be aligned and calibrated to ensure proper operation and optimal performance.
When it comes to shocks and struts services in Shawnessy, Alberta, Extra-Tech Automotive Ltd is your go-to destination. Trust Extra-Tech Automotive Ltd for all your shocks and struts needs in Shawnessy, AB. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience our reliable and professional services that enhance your ride comfort, handling, and overall safety.