What are the signs of a bad shock and strut?
Shocks and struts are essential components of your vehicle's suspension system, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Over time, these parts can wear out, leading to compromised handling, reduced comfort, and even safety risks. In this article, we’ll explore the common signs of bad shocks and struts and why addressing these issues promptly is crucial for your vehicle's performance and your safety.
What Are Shocks and Struts?
Before diving into the signs of failure, it’s important to understand what shocks and struts do. Shocks (shock absorbers) and struts are part of your car’s suspension system. While they serve similar purposes, they are not interchangeable:
- Shocks: Absorb and dampen the impact of road irregularities, ensuring a smooth ride.
- Struts: Combine the function of a shock absorber with structural support for the suspension system, playing a critical role in steering and alignment.
Both components work together to maintain tire contact with the road, improve handling, and ensure passenger comfort.
Signs of a Bad Shock and Strut
Worn shocks and struts can lead to noticeable changes in your vehicle’s performance. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
- Excessive Bouncing: If your car continues to bounce after hitting a bump or pothole, it’s a clear sign that your shocks or struts are no longer absorbing impacts effectively.
- Nose Diving or Squatting: When braking, your car may dip forward (nose diving), or when accelerating, the rear may squat. This indicates uneven weight distribution due to worn suspension components.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Bad shocks and struts can cause uneven tire wear, as they fail to keep the tires firmly planted on the road.
- Leaking Fluid: Shocks and struts contain hydraulic fluid. If you notice fluid leaking from these components, it’s a sign they need replacement.
- Steering Issues: Difficulty steering, especially at low speeds, or a feeling of instability while turning can indicate worn struts.
- Unusual Noises: Clunking or knocking sounds when driving over bumps may point to damaged shocks or struts.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Worn shocks and struts can reduce braking efficiency, leading to longer stopping distances.
Why You Should Address These Issues Promptly
Ignoring bad shocks and struts can lead to more than just an uncomfortable ride. Here’s why timely repairs are essential:
- Safety: Worn shocks and struts compromise your vehicle’s handling and braking, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Tire Longevity: Uneven tire wear caused by bad suspension components can lead to premature tire replacement.
- Cost Savings: Addressing suspension issues early can prevent further damage to other components, saving you money in the long run.
When to Replace Shocks and Struts
As a general rule, shocks and struts should be inspected every 50,000 miles or sooner if you notice any of the signs mentioned above. However, the lifespan of these components can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. If you’re unsure, consult a trusted mechanic for an inspection.
Conclusion
Bad shocks and struts can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and comfort. If you notice any of the warning signs, don’t delay—schedule an inspection with a professional auto repair shop. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing suspension issues to keep your car running smoothly and safely. Contact us today to book an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you drive with bad shocks and 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.
How do I know if my struts or shocks are bad?
An easy test is to bounce each corner of the car by pushing down on the car then quickly letting go, it should stop moving quickly. If it continues to bounce after you have let go the strut/shock is bad and should be replaced. If you're not sure compare it to how other cars ``bounce''.
What happens when shocks and struts wear out?
Increased wear on other suspension parts – Worn shocks and struts can have a negative effect on related steering, braking, and suspension components. As the shocks or struts wear, they allow more suspension movement, meaning that other steering, braking and suspension components can suffer the same effects.
How do you know when you need to replace shocks and struts?
Signs of Bad Shocks and Struts
- Changes in handling after you hit a pothole.
- Fluid leaks around the shocks or struts.
- Longer stopping distances or "nose-diving" when braking.
- "Squatting" in the rear with sudden acceleration.
- Tipping or swaying feeling when turning or driving around curves.
