Does my truck have both shocks and struts?
The short answer is that it depends on the specific make and model of your truck. Most trucks have a combination of shocks and struts in their suspension system, but the exact configuration can vary. Let's dive into the details to understand the differences between shocks and struts and how they are used in truck suspensions.
Understanding Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts are both important components of a vehicle's suspension system, but they serve slightly different purposes:
- Shocks are hydraulic dampers that absorb the impact of bumps and potholes, helping to provide a smooth ride. They are typically found on the rear suspension of a truck.
- Struts are a combination of a shock absorber and a structural support for the suspension. They are usually found on the front suspension of a truck and provide both damping and load-bearing functions.
Many trucks use a combination of shocks and struts to provide a balanced and responsive suspension system.
Truck Suspension Configurations
The specific suspension configuration of a truck can vary depending on the make, model, and year. Here are some common setups:
- Shocks and Coil Springs - The front suspension uses struts, while the rear suspension uses shocks and coil springs.
- Shocks and Leaf Springs - The front suspension uses struts, while the rear suspension uses shocks and leaf springs.
- All-Strut Suspension - Both the front and rear suspensions use struts, which is common in some smaller or more compact trucks.
To determine the exact suspension configuration of your truck, it's best to consult your owner's manual or speak with a qualified mechanic. They can inspect your vehicle and provide a definitive answer on whether it has both shocks and struts.
Do I need both shocks and struts?
Monroe recommends that you change your shocks and struts in pairs. If the front left strut has failed and needs to be changed, you should also install a new front right strut. Similarly, if the rear right shock needs replacing, be sure to change the rear left shock.
Does my car have front shocks or struts?
In fact, most modern vehicles have struts on the front axle and shocks on the rear axle. You might have struts on both axles, but it is rare to have only shocks. There are 3 easy ways to figure out whether your vehicle has shocks or struts. Check your owner's manual.
How do you know if your truck shocks are bad?
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.
How do I know if my truck 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.
Are shocks included with struts?
Car struts combine a shock and spring assembly in one unit that is part of the structural make-up of the vehicle.
Should I replace the struts or just the shock?
One common question that car owners face is whether they should replace both shocks and struts simultaneously. The answer often leans towards "yes," and here's why. Replacing both shocks and struts at the same time is considered a best practice in the automotive world.
