How do I know if my truck has shocks or struts?
The quick answer: in most trucks, the front suspension uses a strut (a coil-spring assembly that also bears load), while the rear uses a separate shock absorber. But configurations vary, so check your model for confirmation.
Shocks and struts are both dampers, but they perform different roles. A strut combines a spring and a damper and often serves as a structural element, whereas a shock absorber only dampens motion and is paired with a separate spring. Different suspension designs—MacPherson struts, multi-link, leaf springs—mean you can’t rely on the name alone; you have to inspect the assembly or consult the manual. Here’s how to tell on your truck.
What are shocks and struts, and how they differ
Below are the core distinctions you can use to tell them apart by appearance and function.
Struts are common in front suspensions (especially MacPherson-type) and may replace upper control arms; shocks can appear in both front and rear but are typically separate from any coil springs. Strut assemblies often require alignment adjustments when replaced; shocks are usually replaced in pairs and generally don’t require alignment. A front strut usually has a coil spring encircling a single, large damper with a top mount bearing; a plain damper (no coil around it) is a shock.
In practice, many trucks use front struts with a coil spring and rear shocks with either leaf springs or coil springs, but designs vary by model and year. Always verify with your specific model’s documentation.
How to identify shocks or struts on your truck
Use these steps to confirm the suspension type on your particular vehicle.
- Visual check under the hood and at the front wheels: Do you see a single damper with a heavy coil spring wrapped around it, plus a top mount bearing? If yes, that front assembly is a strut.
- Inspect the wheel area: If the damper attaches directly to the wheel knuckle and there’s no coil spring around it, you’re likely looking at a shock absorber.
- Look at the rear suspension: Leaf springs with visible shocks usually indicate shocks are separate from the springs; if the rear uses a coil spring with a damper integrated near the coil, that could indicate a coil-over style or a strut-like rear setup, which is less common on pickups but possible in certain models.
- Check for upper control arms and mounting hardware: Struts in many MacPherson setups replace or resemble the upper control arm; you’ll often see the top of the damper attached to the body with a bearing.
- Consult the vehicle’s documentation: If you’re unsure, reference the owner’s manual or a factory parts diagram for your exact year and trim (or ask a dealer/independent shop with your VIN).
Confirming with the official documentation is the most reliable way to know for sure, especially for models with unique suspension configurations or aftermarket modifications.
Practical notes for owners and shoppers
Understanding whether you have shocks or struts matters for replacement parts and maintenance. Struts typically wear out as a pair with the coil springs and may affect alignment when replaced; shocks are often replaced in pairs and don’t usually impact alignment. If you’re replacing components yourself, verify whether you need a true strut assembly or a separate damper to avoid incorrect parts or misalignment.
Summary
Most light trucks place struts in the front and shocks in the rear, but configurations vary. A strut combines a spring and damper and often serves as a structural element, while a shock is a standalone damper with no coil spring. Use a combination of visual inspection, rear/front suspension layout, and the vehicle’s official documentation to confirm what your truck has. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a qualified technician to avoid buying the wrong parts.
Do I have both shocks and struts?
While this is the case, not all vehicles have struts and may use separate springs and shocks in place of them. You can tell whether your vehicle has struts or shocks by inspecting them, checking your owner's manual or asking a trained automotive technician (who can also tell you if they need to be replaced soon).
How do I know if I have shocks or struts?
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. Check both front and rear wheels, as you might have both shocks on one axle and struts on the other.
Is it shocks or struts?
Struts and shocks both dampen suspension movement, but struts also serve as a structural part of the suspension that supports the vehicle's weight and affects alignment. Shocks are simpler, standalone components designed only to absorb and control the motion of the springs. Because of their structural role, struts are often more complex and expensive to replace and require an alignment afterward, while shock replacement is typically more straightforward and affordable.
You can watch this video to learn about the functions of shocks and struts: 54sCountermanYouTube · Sep 13, 2022
Struts
- Function: Damps suspension movement like a shock, but also supports the vehicle's weight and is a core structural component.
- Structure: An integrated assembly that includes a coil spring and the shock absorber. It takes the place of the upper control arm in some suspension designs.
- Replacement: More expensive due to their complexity and the fact that an alignment is required afterward.
Shocks
- Function: Damps the up-and-down movement of the suspension to prevent excessive bouncing. It does not support the vehicle's weight.
- Structure: A standalone component that works with the high-tension springs.
- Replacement: More affordable and quicker to replace since they are a simpler, separate part.
This video explains the functions of shocks and struts: 57sGears and GasolineYouTube · Oct 12, 2019
How to tell if you need a replacement
Regardless of whether your vehicle has shocks or struts, you may need a replacement if you experience:
- A bumpy or rough ride
- Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
- Nose-diving while braking
- Uneven tire wear
- Fluid leaking from the component
- Decreased steering control or instability when braking
What's the average cost to replace shocks and struts?
The total cost for replacing shocks and struts typically ranges from $450 to $1,500, with luxury or performance vehicles potentially costing much more. This price includes both parts and labor, and it's often recommended to replace all four components at the same time to ensure balanced performance. The final cost depends on your vehicle's make and model, the cost of parts, and your location.
This video explains the factors that influence the cost of replacing shocks and struts: 1mAuto V Fix YouTube · Sep 30, 2022
Cost breakdown
- Parts: Shocks can range from $80$ 80$80 to $250$ 250$250 per pair, while struts are typically more expensive at $300$ 300$300 to $760$ 760$760 per pair, depending on the type and brand.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $150$ 150$150 to $300$ 300$300 per axle.
- Full replacement: Replacing all four components (shocks on the rear, struts on the front) can total between $500$ 500$500 and $1,500$ 1 comma 500$1,500 for parts and labor.
Factors that affect the final cost
- Vehicle type: The cost is significantly higher for luxury, sports, or off-road vehicles due to more complex and expensive parts.
- Location: Labor rates vary by geographic location, so getting quotes from multiple local mechanics can help you find a competitive price.
- Parts quality: The price will vary based on whether you choose original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket parts.
When to replace shocks and struts
- It is recommended to check them around every 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
- Signs of worn-out shocks and struts include a bumpy or bouncy ride, fluid leaks, uneven tire wear, and a noticeable "nose-dive" when braking.
This video shows the symptoms of worn-out shocks and struts: 59scar PROblemsYouTube · Dec 13, 2024
