Does my SUV have shocks or struts?
As a vehicle owner, understanding the components of your SUV's suspension system is crucial for maintaining its performance and safety. One common question that arises is whether your SUV is equipped with shocks or struts. This article will clarify the differences between these two components and help you determine which one your SUV has.
Understanding Shocks and Struts
Both shocks and struts are essential parts of a vehicle's suspension system, but they serve different purposes and have distinct designs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Shocks: Shock absorbers are designed to control the impact and rebound of your vehicle's springs and suspension. They help to stabilize the vehicle and provide a smoother ride by absorbing bumps and vibrations.
- Struts: Struts are a structural part of the suspension system that supports the weight of the vehicle. They combine the functions of a shock absorber and a spring, providing both support and damping. Struts are typically found in vehicles with a MacPherson strut suspension design.
How to Determine if Your SUV Has Shocks or Struts
To find out whether your SUV has shocks or struts, consider the following steps:
- Check the Owner's Manual: Your vehicle's manual will specify the type of suspension system it uses. Look for sections related to suspension or maintenance.
- Visual Inspection: If you're comfortable doing so, you can visually inspect the suspension components. Struts are usually mounted vertically and are part of the suspension assembly, while shocks are mounted horizontally and are separate from the springs.
- Consult a Professional: If you're unsure, it's always best to consult with a qualified mechanic. They can provide a definitive answer and check for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion
Understanding whether your SUV has shocks or struts is important for proper maintenance and ensuring a smooth ride. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily determine the type of suspension system your vehicle has. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your SUV's suspension, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
