Does my SUV have shocks or struts?
The short answer is that most SUVs use a combination of shocks and struts in their suspension system. Shocks and struts both play a crucial role in providing a smooth and comfortable ride, but they have some key differences in their design and function.
Understanding Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts are both types of shock absorbers, which are essential components of a vehicle's suspension system. They help to dampen the up-and-down motion of the wheels, providing a more stable and controlled ride.
- Shocks are standalone components that connect the vehicle's frame to the wheels. They use a piston and fluid-filled cylinder to absorb the impact of bumps and vibrations.
- Struts are a combination of a shock absorber and a structural support for the suspension. They serve a dual purpose, providing both shock absorption and load-bearing support for the vehicle.
In general, SUVs tend to use a combination of shocks and struts in their suspension systems. The front wheels often have struts, while the rear wheels may have a mix of shocks and struts, depending on the specific model and design.
Advantages of Shocks and Struts
Both shocks and struts offer several benefits for SUV owners:
- Improved Ride Quality: The shock absorption provided by shocks and struts helps to smooth out bumps and vibrations, resulting in a more comfortable ride for passengers.
- Enhanced Handling: By controlling the movement of the wheels, shocks and struts contribute to better handling and stability, especially during turns and sudden maneuvers.
- Increased Safety: The improved ride quality and handling provided by shocks and struts can help to enhance the overall safety of the vehicle, reducing the risk of loss of control or accidents.
It's important to note that the specific suspension components used in an SUV can vary depending on the make, model, and year of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out shocks and struts are essential to ensure optimal performance and safety.
When should I replace struts on my SUV?
4 Signs That You Need to Replace Shocks & Struts
- Bumpy, rough ride. When you hit a bump in the road, do you feel like you could lose control of the vehicle?
- Leaking fluid. Leaked fluid on the exterior of the shocks/struts is a sign that something is wrong.
- Uneven treadwear.
- Instability when braking or turning.
Can you drive with bad struts?
Struts on the front-end of your vehicle are also crucial for steering and alignment. Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency. It can also damage other components in your car.
Do I have both shocks and struts?
They're not. Every wheel on your vehicle has either a shock or a strut – never both, never neither. However, you may have struts on your front wheels and shocks on your rear wheels.
What are the symptoms of a bad strut?
Read on to learn the signs 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.
Is it OK to drive with bad struts?
Once the wear starts hampering your vehicle's performance, your service provider will likely recommend replacing the worn part to restore your car's ride and handling. If you choose to wait to inspect worn shocks and struts, you jeopardize your ability to stop, steer and maintain stability.
What vehicles have struts?
The strut is a common damper type used on many of today's independent suspension, front wheel drive vehicles as well as some rear wheel drive vehicles. A strut is a major structural part of a suspension.
How much does it cost to replace struts on SUV?
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. However, keep in mind that this can vary depending on the type of vehicle suspension you have and your location.
How can I tell if I have 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.
Should I replace the struts or just the shock?
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.
At what mileage should struts be replaced?
Struts typically last about 80K miles. I've had some complete worn out by 50K, and have had a couple go 100K+. But if you're planning to keep the vehicle to well over 100K miles, change them between 80K and 100K miles.
