Is it okay to drive with bad struts?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve seen countless vehicles come into the shop with suspension issues. One of the most common questions I get is whether it’s safe to drive with bad struts. In this article, I’ll explain what struts do, the risks of driving with damaged ones, and why timely repairs are essential for your safety and your car’s longevity.
What Are Struts and Why Are They Important?
Struts are a critical component of your car’s suspension system. They combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit, providing structural support to the vehicle while absorbing road impacts. Struts play a vital role in:
- Maintaining proper alignment of your tires.
- Ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
- Improving handling and stability, especially during turns or sudden stops.
- Reducing wear and tear on other suspension components.
When struts are in good condition, they help keep your car stable and safe. However, when they’re worn out or damaged, they can compromise your vehicle’s performance and safety.
The Risks of Driving with Bad Struts
Driving with bad struts is not only uncomfortable but also dangerous. Here are some of the risks you face if you continue to drive without addressing the issue:
- Reduced Vehicle Control: Bad struts can make your car harder to handle, especially on uneven roads or during sharp turns. This increases the risk of accidents.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Worn-out struts can affect your braking system, making it take longer to stop your car in an emergency.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Damaged struts can cause your tires to wear unevenly, leading to costly replacements and reduced fuel efficiency.
- Damage to Other Components: Bad struts can put extra stress on other parts of your suspension system, such as ball joints and control arms, leading to more expensive repairs down the line.
Signs Your Struts May Be Failing
It’s important to recognize the warning signs of bad struts early. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying after hitting a bump.
- Unusual noises, such as clunking or creaking, coming from the suspension.
- Uneven tire wear or noticeable dips in one corner of the car.
- Difficulty steering or a feeling of instability while driving.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your struts inspected by a professional mechanic.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Repairs
While it might be tempting to put off repairs, driving with bad struts can lead to more significant problems and higher repair costs in the long run. More importantly, it puts your safety—and the safety of others on the road—at risk. At Kevin's Autos, we always recommend addressing suspension issues as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary complications.
Conclusion
In short, it’s not okay to drive with bad struts. They are essential for your car’s safety, performance, and comfort. If you suspect your struts are failing, don’t wait—schedule an inspection with a trusted mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition. Contact us today to ensure your car is safe and road-ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you drive on bad struts?
Loss of handling and control – Driving with failing shocks or struts has a direct impact on your ability to control your vehicle. You may notice that your vehicle bounces excessively, rolls or sways abruptly when making a turn, or that you feel out of control when hit by a cross wind.
What happens if you don't replace 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.
How much does it cost to replace struts?
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.
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 are the symptoms of a bad strut?
Symptoms 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 does a bad strut sound like while driving?
Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound. You'll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road.
What happens if you don't fix struts?
Over time, shocks and struts can lose their ability to control weight transfer; this is what causes you to feel like you're not in control of your vehicle. This can be dangerous, especially if your tires lose contact with the pavement, making it difficult to control your vehicle in an emergency situation.
Is it safe to drive with a noisy strut?
No. It's not safe. The strut is meant to keep your wheel stable, in position and in good contact with the road.
How long can I go without replacing struts?
Service Life of Shocks and Struts
Usually, a change would be recommended when reaching the 50,000 to the 75,000-mile mark. This mile mark is usually when signs of uncomfortable riding become evident, though these numbers do not mark the definite lifetime of the shocks and struts.
What does a bad strut sound like?
Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound. You'll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road.
