Do I have both shocks and struts?
As a car owner, you might wonder whether your vehicle is equipped with shocks, struts, or both. Understanding the difference between these components and their role in your car's suspension system is crucial for maintaining a smooth and safe ride. At Kevin's Autos, we’ve seen countless customers with this very question, so let’s break it down for you.
What Are Shocks and Struts?
Shocks (shock absorbers) and struts are both integral parts of your car's suspension system, but they serve slightly different purposes:
- Shocks: These are hydraulic components designed to absorb and dampen the impact of road irregularities. They help control the movement of your car's springs and suspension, ensuring a smooth ride.
- Struts: Struts combine the function of a shock absorber with additional structural support for the suspension system. They are a key part of the vehicle's steering and alignment system.
In short, while both shocks and struts help with ride comfort and stability, struts also play a critical role in the overall structural integrity of your suspension system.
Does My Car Have Both Shocks and Struts?
Most vehicles are equipped with either shocks or struts on each wheel, but not both on the same wheel. Here’s how it typically works:
- Some cars have struts in the front and shocks in the rear.
- Other vehicles may have struts on all four wheels or shocks on all four wheels.
The specific configuration depends on your car's make and model. For example, many sedans and compact cars use struts in the front and shocks in the rear, while trucks and SUVs often have shocks on all four wheels for better load handling.
How Can I Tell What My Car Has?
If you’re unsure whether your car has shocks, struts, or both, here are a few ways to find out:
- Check your owner’s manual: The manual will usually specify the type of suspension components your car uses.
- Inspect the suspension system: If you’re comfortable looking under your car, you can visually identify shocks and struts. Struts are typically larger and integrated with a coil spring, while shocks are smaller and separate from the spring.
- Ask a professional: At Kevin’s Autos, we can quickly determine your car’s suspension setup during a routine inspection or service appointment.
Why Does It Matter?
Knowing whether your car has shocks, struts, or both is important for maintenance and repair purposes. Struts, for example, are more expensive to replace than shocks due to their structural role. Additionally, worn-out shocks or struts can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a less comfortable ride, so timely replacement is essential.
Conclusion
While your car won’t have both shocks and struts on the same wheel, it’s possible to have a combination of the two depending on your vehicle’s design. If you’re still unsure or need help with your suspension system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Kevin’s Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to keep your ride smooth and safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a bad strut?
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.
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.
How much does it cost to have shocks and struts replaced?
between $450 and $1,100
How Much Would It Cost to Replace Your Shocks and Struts? A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100.
How do I know if I have shocks or struts?
In many cases, shocks will look like a hand pump. Struts, on the other hand, typically look like a coil spring with a shock in the center, but occasionally, the shock is mounted next to the spring. Check both front and rear wheels, as you might have both shocks on one axle and struts on the other.
Can I replace struts without replacing shocks?
Yes you could. However, with all the work that's involved with taking out the spring, you might want to replace the strut as well. Especially if you're paying someone else to do this. Anytime you're already going to be tearing something apart, it's almost always best to just replace components as you go.
Do I need both shocks and struts?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs (front axle or rear axle), and it's even better to replace the shocks/struts on all four wheels at one time. This helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.
Do you 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.
Do you replace shocks and struts at the same time?
Replacing both shocks and struts at the same time is considered a best practice in the automotive world. This approach ensures that your vehicle maintains optimal stability and ride comfort.
Are shocks included in struts?
Shock absorbers are located behind the tires and work alongside a separately mounted spring. The sole job of car shock absorbers is to stop the car from bouncing. Car struts combine a shock and spring assembly in one unit that is part of the structural make-up of the vehicle.
What does a bad strut sound like?
Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound. You'll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road.
