Are struts worth fixing?
As a car owner, you may find yourself facing various maintenance and repair decisions, one of which is whether to fix your vehicle's struts. Struts play a crucial role in your car's suspension system, affecting ride quality, handling, and overall safety. In this article, we will explore the importance of struts, the signs that indicate they need repair, and whether fixing them is a worthwhile investment.
Understanding Struts
Struts are a vital component of your vehicle's suspension system. They serve multiple functions, including:
- Supporting the weight of the vehicle
- Absorbing shocks from the road
- Maintaining proper wheel alignment
- Enhancing overall vehicle stability
Given their importance, it's essential to keep them in good condition to ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience.
Signs Your Struts Need Repair
Recognizing the signs of failing struts can help you address issues before they escalate. Here are some common indicators:
- Excessive Bouncing: If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting a bump, it may indicate worn struts.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Struts that are not functioning properly can lead to uneven tire wear, which can affect handling and safety.
- Fluid Leaks: If you notice oil or fluid leaking from the struts, it's a clear sign they need attention.
- Steering Issues: Difficulty steering or a feeling of instability while driving can also point to strut problems.
Is Fixing Struts Worth It?
When considering whether to fix your struts, several factors come into play:
- Safety: Worn struts can compromise your vehicle's handling and safety. Fixing them can prevent accidents and ensure a smoother ride.
- Cost vs. Value: While the cost of replacing struts can be significant, the value of improved ride quality and safety often outweighs the expense.
- Vehicle Age and Condition: If your vehicle is older and has multiple issues, it may be worth evaluating whether investing in strut repairs is practical.
- Long-Term Savings: Addressing strut issues early can prevent further damage to other suspension components, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Conclusion
In summary, fixing struts is generally worth the investment, especially when considering the safety and performance of your vehicle. If you notice any signs of strut failure, it's advisable to consult with a professional mechanic to assess the situation. At Kevin's Autos, we are here to help you with all your auto repair needs, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should it cost to replace struts?
Shocks and struts replacement costs somewhere between $450 and $1,100. It's possible to remove just the shocks or the struts, but it may produce mixed results performance-wise. Common symptoms of failing shocks and struts include knocking sounds, bumpy rides, cupped tire wear pattern, and more.
Is it OK to drive with bad struts?
In summary, driving with a bad strut is not safe and can lead to various risks, including loss of control, reduced braking efficiency, tire wear, and increased wear on other suspension parts. It is recommended to have the strut repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle. 2.
Is it worth replacing struts on an old car?
Yes, replacing your struts and shocks can significantly improve your car's ride quality, often making it feel more like a new car. Over time, struts and shocks wear out and lose their ability to effectively dampen the impact of bumps and road irregularities.
How urgent is it to replace struts?
Usually, a change would be recommended when reaching the 50,000 to the 75,000-mile mark. This mile mark is usually when signs of uncomfortable riding become evident, though these numbers do not mark the definite lifetime of the shocks and struts.
What happens if you don't fix struts?
Over time, shocks and struts can lose their ability to control weight transfer; this is what causes you to feel like you're not in control of your vehicle. This can be dangerous, especially if your tires lose contact with the pavement, making it difficult to control your vehicle in an emergency situation.
What does a failing strut sound like?
You'll often hear clunking or knocking sounds when bad struts react to bumps. This is one of the most common strut noises indicating your suspension system needs attention.
Do I need an alignment after replacing struts?
Monroe ® recommends performing an alignment anytime struts or other steering and suspension components are replaced. Failure to make sure the vehicle's alignment is within factory specifications can lead to problems like premature tire wear and other customer comebacks.
How many miles should struts last?
50,000-100,000 miles
Generally, shocks and struts wear out every 50,000-100,000 miles. If you're a more aggressive driver and/or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster. Shocks and struts don't go out all at once; they deteriorate slowly over time.
Can I drive with leaking struts?
Loss of handling and control – Driving with failing shocks or struts has a direct impact on your ability to control your vehicle. You may notice that your vehicle bounces excessively, rolls or sways abruptly when making a turn, or that you feel out of control when hit by a cross wind.
How to tell if struts are bad?
Symptoms of Worn Shocks & Struts
- Nose dive when braking.
- Bouncy ride.
- Vehicle rolls or sways when cornering.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Rear squat during acceleration.
- Vibration in steering wheel.
- Unusual noises.
- Leaking fluid on exterior of shocks/struts.
