Does a Ford Fiesta have shocks or struts?
The Ford Fiesta, a popular subcompact car, is equipped with a suspension system that utilizes struts rather than traditional shock absorbers. Struts are a combination of a shock absorber and a structural support, providing both dampening and load-bearing functions in the vehicle's suspension.
Understanding the Suspension System of the Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta, like many modern vehicles, employs a MacPherson strut suspension system. This design features a strut assembly that combines the shock absorber and the upper steering knuckle into a single unit. The strut is responsible for absorbing the impact of bumps and potholes, as well as providing stability and control during cornering and braking.
The MacPherson strut suspension system offers several advantages over a traditional shock absorber setup, including:
- Improved Handling: The strut's structural design helps to improve the vehicle's handling and responsiveness, providing a more direct and precise steering feel.
- Compact Packaging: The integrated design of the strut allows for a more compact and space-efficient suspension system, which is particularly beneficial in smaller vehicles like the Ford Fiesta.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Strut-based suspension systems are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain compared to traditional shock absorber setups.
It's important to note that while the Ford Fiesta uses struts, the terms "shocks" and "struts" are often used interchangeably in the automotive industry. Both components serve the same basic function of dampening the vehicle's suspension, but the strut design offers additional structural and performance benefits.
Maintaining the Ford Fiesta's Suspension System
Like any suspension system, the Ford Fiesta's struts require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. Over time, the struts may wear down or become damaged, leading to issues such as poor ride quality, uneven tire wear, or reduced handling stability.
If you notice any issues with your Ford Fiesta's suspension, it's recommended to have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle and replace any worn or damaged strut components as needed. Proper maintenance of the suspension system is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's handling, comfort, and overall safety.
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.
How much to replace shock absorbers on a Ford Fiesta?
Ford Fiesta Front Shock Absorbers (Pair) Replacement cost
| Name | Independent garage estimate |
|---|---|
| Ford Fiesta 1.8 2000 Part brands: Ford, Sachs Parts costs: £148 - £178 Labour time: 1-2 hours | £208 - £230 |
| Ford Fiesta 1.6 2000 Part brands: Anschler, Ford, Sachs Parts costs: £89 - £110 Labour time: 1-2 hours | £153 - £171 |
How much to replace struts on a Ford Fiesta?
The average cost for a Ford Fiesta Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $612 and $667. Labor costs are estimated between $166 and $209 while parts are priced between $446 and $458. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
How much does it cost to replace shocks and struts?
between $450 and $1,100
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.
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.
Should I replace the struts or just the shock?
You want struts/shocks on an axle to be at optimum performance because they do affect your handling and your braking so when replacing them because of maintenance definitely recommend doing the pair. When replacing them because of collision damage it's a little bit different.
