How long do Ford struts last?
Ford struts typically last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Struts are an essential component of a vehicle's suspension system, responsible for absorbing shocks and providing a smooth ride. Understanding the lifespan of Ford struts can help car owners plan for necessary maintenance and replacements.
What Are Ford Struts?
Ford struts are part of the suspension system that connects the wheel to the vehicle's frame. They are designed to absorb the impact of bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable and stable ride. Struts also play a crucial role in maintaining the vehicle's alignment, ensuring the wheels remain properly positioned for optimal handling and control.
Factors Affecting Ford Strut Lifespan
The lifespan of Ford struts can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Driving Conditions: Vehicles driven on rough roads, over potholes, or in harsh weather conditions are more likely to experience accelerated wear on their struts.
- Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, tend to put more stress on the suspension system, leading to faster strut wear.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections and timely replacement of worn struts can help extend their lifespan.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as sudden stops and sharp turns, can also contribute to premature strut wear.
By being mindful of these factors and following the recommended maintenance schedule, Ford owners can help ensure their struts last as long as possible.
Signs of Worn Ford Struts
Recognizing the signs of worn struts can help Ford owners identify when it's time to replace them. Some common indicators include:
- Bouncy or Unstable Ride: Worn struts can cause the vehicle to bounce excessively, especially over bumps or uneven terrain.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Faulty struts can lead to uneven tire wear, as the wheels may not be properly aligned.
- Leaking Fluid: Struts can develop leaks, which can be a sign of internal damage or wear.
- Steering Issues: Worn struts can affect the vehicle's handling and steering responsiveness.
If any of these signs are observed, it's recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine if the struts need to be replaced.
Replacing Ford Struts
When it's time to replace Ford struts, it's essential to use high-quality, OEM-approved parts to ensure proper fit and performance. The cost of strut replacement can vary depending on the specific model and location, but it's generally a good idea to budget for the expense every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
What happens if you don't replace bad struts?
Additionally, because of that bouncing from the shocks and struts failing will also put a lot of strain on your car's suspension system. By not doing it's job – absorbing the shock – not having them replaced can lead to damage in the ball joints, wheel hubs, and many other components of the suspension.
What does a failing strut sound like?
You'll often hear clunking or knocking sounds when bad struts react to bumps. This is one of the most common strut noises indicating your suspension system needs attention.
What is the average cost to replace 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 is the average lifespan of struts?
Generally, shocks and struts wear out every 50,000-100,000 miles. If you're a more aggressive driver and/or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster. Shocks and struts don't go out all at once; they deteriorate slowly over time.
How do I know if my struts need replacing?
Excess dipping and bouncing when you hit the brakes or go over a bump are good signs your shocks/struts need to be replaced. If you hear squeaking when you go over bumps they may also need to be replaced. If you see oil leaking from the shocks/struts they definitely need to be replaced.
Do you need an alignment after replacing struts?
Monroe ® recommends performing an alignment anytime struts or other steering and suspension components are replaced. Failure to make sure the vehicle's alignment is within factory specifications can lead to problems like premature tire wear and other customer comebacks.
Can struts last 200,000 miles?
Shocks/Struts
How often: Shocks and struts can last 80,000 miles or more, but rough roads and aggressive driving can make them wear out faster.
How much does Ford charge to replace struts?
The average cost for a Ford F-150 Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $790 and $973. Labor costs are estimated between $197 and $248 while parts are priced between $593 and $725.
Should you replace all four struts at once?
Finally, replace your struts and shocks in pairs
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.
