How long do Subaru shocks last?
Subaru vehicles are known for their durability and reliability, but like all cars, their components, including shocks, have a finite lifespan. Understanding how long Subaru shocks typically last and recognizing the signs of wear can help you maintain a smooth and safe driving experience.
What Are Shocks and Why Are They Important?
Shocks, or shock absorbers, are a critical part of your vehicle's suspension system. They help absorb the impact of bumps and uneven road surfaces, ensuring a comfortable ride and maintaining tire contact with the road for better handling and safety. Without properly functioning shocks, your Subaru's performance and safety could be compromised.
Typical Lifespan of Subaru Shocks
The lifespan of Subaru shocks can vary depending on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. On average, Subaru shocks last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this range can differ based on the following:
- Driving Conditions: Frequent driving on rough or unpaved roads can cause shocks to wear out faster.
- Driving Style: Aggressive driving, such as hard braking or sharp cornering, can put additional stress on the shocks.
- Vehicle Load: Regularly carrying heavy loads can accelerate shock wear.
Signs Your Subaru Shocks May Need Replacement
It's essential to recognize the signs of worn shocks to address the issue before it affects your vehicle's safety and performance. Here are some common indicators:
- Excessive Bouncing: If your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump, it may indicate worn shocks.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Shocks that are no longer functioning properly can cause uneven tire wear.
- Leaking Fluid: Visible fluid leaks around the shocks are a clear sign they need replacement.
- Reduced Handling: Difficulty steering or reduced stability when cornering could point to shock issues.
- Nose Diving or Squatting: If the front of your car dips when braking or the rear squats when accelerating, the shocks may be worn.
When to Replace Your Subaru Shocks
To ensure your Subaru remains safe and comfortable to drive, it's a good idea to have your shocks inspected regularly, especially after reaching the 50,000-mile mark. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, schedule an inspection with a trusted mechanic. Replacing shocks in pairs (front or rear) is recommended to maintain balanced handling.
Maintaining Your Subaru's Suspension System
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your Subaru's shocks and suspension system. Here are some tips:
- Have your suspension system inspected during routine maintenance visits.
- Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
- Avoid overloading your vehicle beyond its recommended capacity.
- Drive cautiously on rough roads to minimize stress on the suspension.
By staying proactive and addressing suspension issues early, you can enjoy a smoother ride and prolong the life of your Subaru's shocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I replace my Subaru shocks?
Sooner or later, your Subaru's shocks and struts will need to be replaced. Subaru recommends that you have your suspension checked every 15,000 miles to ensure that everything is in good shape. Shocks and struts wear out gradually over time, and will need to be replaced in order to keep your Subaru on the road.
Can shocks last 150000 miles?
- Shock absorbers/struts: 50,000 to 100,000 miles. - Control arms: 90,000 to 100,000 miles. - Ball joints: 70,000 to 150,000 miles. - Bushings: 50,000 to 150,000 miles.
Should I replace all 4 shocks at the same time?
Definitely replace them in pairs, depending on the wear of them you might even have to replace all four as combining worn shocks with new ones can (a) have very undesirable effects on the handling and (b) tends to accelerate wear on the already worn shocks, leading to even more (a).
At what mileage should shocks be replaced?
50,000 to 100,000 miles
Like most car systems, the lifespan of your vehicle's shocks and struts depends on many variables, including road condition, payload, and how fast you drive over speed bumps and potholes. However, they typically last from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
How do you tell if your shocks need replacing?
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 is the average lifespan of car shocks?
50,000-100,000 miles
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.
Do Subaru's have shocks or struts?
Some Subarus do specify struts in place of shocks, and vice versa, so it's important to make sure your mechanic is following the correct specifications. Although, if you take your Subaru into a dealership, you aren't going to run into this issue as they will know everything about shocks and struts.
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.
Can shocks and struts last 200,000 miles?
Shocks/Struts
Like brakes and tires, the life span of these suspension parts can depend on the quality of the roads where you drive. 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 to tell if shocks need replacing?
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.
