Does a Chevy Malibu have struts or shocks?
The Chevrolet Malibu, a popular mid-size sedan, utilizes a suspension system that includes both struts and shocks. The specific components used can vary depending on the model year and trim level of the Malibu.
Struts vs. Shocks in the Chevy Malibu
The Chevy Malibu's suspension system is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride while also maintaining good handling and control. The front suspension typically features struts, which combine the shock absorber and spring into a single unit. The rear suspension, on the other hand, often uses traditional shock absorbers.
Struts are a common suspension component in many modern vehicles, including the Chevy Malibu. They provide both the spring and damping functions, helping to absorb the impact of bumps and potholes while also controlling the vehicle's body motion during cornering and braking.
Shock absorbers, on the other hand, are separate components that work in conjunction with the vehicle's springs to control the up-and-down motion of the wheels and suspension. They are typically found in the rear suspension of the Chevy Malibu, where they help to maintain stability and traction.
Maintenance and Replacement
Over time, the struts and shocks in a Chevy Malibu can wear out, leading to a rougher ride and potentially affecting the vehicle's handling and safety. It's important to have the suspension system inspected and maintained regularly, and to replace any worn or damaged components as needed.
When replacing the suspension components in a Chevy Malibu, it's important to use the correct parts and to have the work done by a qualified mechanic. Improper installation or the use of inferior parts can compromise the vehicle's performance and safety.
Conclusion
In summary, the Chevy Malibu utilizes a combination of struts and shocks in its suspension system, with struts typically found in the front and shocks in the rear. Proper maintenance and replacement of these components is essential for ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable ride.
How much does it cost to replace struts on a Chevy Malibu?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Malibu Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $748 and $813. Labor costs are estimated between $248 and $313 while parts are typically priced around $500.
What's the difference between a shock and a strut?
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.
How do I know if my car has shocks or struts?
Look Underneath Your Vehicle.
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.
What noise does a bad strut make?
When shocks and struts are worn out you may hear a clunking or knocking sound. This sound is caused by metal-to-metal contact when the shock or strut bottoms out when hitting a bump. In addition, these noises could be a result in worn shock or strut mounting components.
What happens if my struts go bad?
When struts go bad, the internal seals start leaking and the struts gradually lose their ability to to absorb the bumps in the road surface and keep the tires firmly on the road. This affects handling because tires and the springs like to keep bouncing.
What are the signs of a bad shock and 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.
Should I replace the whole strut or just the shock?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control.
Can you just replace shocks and not struts?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions.
What does a bad rear strut feel like?
When your shocks and struts are going bad, the rear of your vehicle can squat excessively when you hit the gas pedal. The vehicle's momentum is transferred to the rear which causes the front end to rise, a factor in passenger motion sickness and unnecessarily high loading of the rear suspension components.
Does a Chevy Malibu have rear struts?
All the Chevy Malibu's from 1997-2003 are the exact same procedure to replace the rear struts. I will show you step by step how to replace the strut assembly.
