Is it worth it to fix struts?
The short answer is that it depends on the specific situation, but in many cases, fixing struts can be a worthwhile investment. Struts are an essential component of a vehicle's suspension system, and when they wear out, it can lead to a range of issues that can impact the car's handling, safety, and overall performance.
What Are Struts?
Struts are a type of shock absorber that are responsible for absorbing the impact of bumps and potholes, as well as helping to keep the wheels in alignment. They are a critical part of a vehicle's suspension system, and when they start to wear out, it can lead to a number of problems, including poor handling, uneven tire wear, and even safety issues.
Signs That Struts Need Replacing
- Excessive bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps
- Uneven tire wear
- Difficulty steering or a "wandering" feeling while driving
- Noises, such as creaking or clicking, when going over bumps
- Leaking or damaged strut boots
If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to have your struts inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine if they need to be replaced.
Is It Worth It to Fix Struts?
In many cases, it is worth it to fix struts, as they play a critical role in the overall performance and safety of your vehicle. Replacing worn-out struts can improve the handling and stability of your car, as well as extend the life of your tires and other suspension components. Additionally, properly functioning struts can help to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, which can be especially important for longer drives or for those with a sensitive back or neck.
However, the cost of replacing struts can vary widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the specific parts and labor required. In some cases, the cost of replacing struts may not be worth it, especially if the vehicle is older or has other significant issues. It's important to weigh the cost of the repair against the potential benefits and the overall condition of the vehicle.
Ultimately, whether it's worth it to fix struts will depend on your specific situation and the overall condition of your vehicle. If you're unsure, it's best to consult with a qualified mechanic who can assess the condition of your struts and provide a recommendation based on your specific needs and budget.
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.
Will replacing struts improve ride?
Yes, replacing your struts and shocks can significantly improve your car's ride quality, often making it feel more like a new car. Over time, struts and shocks wear out and lose their ability to effectively dampen the impact of bumps and road irregularities.
How much should it cost to replace struts?
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.
How urgent is it to replace 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.
How to tell if struts are bad?
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.
Is it OK to drive with 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.
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.
Can I drive with leaking struts?
Replace Your Front Struts Immediately
You might be wondering, 'how long can I drive with leaky struts? ' but driving with worn-out struts will make your ride unstable and much more dangerous. Worn-out or damaged struts can't keep the vehicle from bouncing in rough road conditions.
How many miles should struts last?
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 I 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.
