Is your ride feeling a big rough or bumpy lately? Do you notice significant squeaking or bouncing when making a turn? If you are dealing with these issues or other unusual driving sensations, you may have a problem with the shock absorbers (shocks) or struts within your vehicle’s suspension system. In this month’s blog post, we examine how shocks or struts play a role in your suspension system, and what to look for if there are developing problems.
The Vehicle Suspension
One of the functions of your vehicle’s suspension system is to ensure smooth road handling by providing cushioning components from rough or uneven road surfaces. These cushioning components include your vehicle frame, the tires, springs, struts, shocks, as well as other important parts. When there is an issue with your vehicle’s shocks or struts, you will experience a significant decline in the quality of your ride.
Shocks and Struts
Contrary to what many drivers think, shocks and struts are not synonymous. While they are both cushioning components for your vehicle, they are not the same. Your vehicle may have one or the other as part of its suspension system.
What are shocks?
Most vehicles today use a type of hydraulic shock absorber. The hydraulic shock uses fluid within a piston to dampen the jarring impulses of movement and bumps while driving. Shocks are designed to absorb kinetic energy by releasing fluid within the piston. Shocks do not support the weight of the vehicle.
What are struts?
Struts also dampen the shock impulse from the road surface but are a component of the suspension system, unlike shocks which are a separate component. The strut assembly is comprised of a spring and a type of shock absorber. Because the strut is part of the vehicle suspension, it also helps to support the weight of the vehicle.
Shock and Strut Problems
While your vehicle’s shocks or struts are designed to handle the stresses of the road surfaces, they are still subject to wear and tear. Drivers who regularly put their vehicles through rough conditions, such as uneven or unpaved roads, potholes, or other heavy driving, may begin to experience problems with these components.
If your shocks or struts have been pushed beyond their limitations, you may notice a variety of signs, including:
- The vehicle bottoms out on uneven road surfaces
- The treads on your tires are worn out sooner than expected
- Your vehicle rocks, bounces, or sways during turns or when braking
- Knocking or squeaking noises when driving over uneven road surfaces or bumps
- Diminished steering and handling performance
- Vehicle leaning (either toward front or back), when applying the brakes
Shock or strut problems should not be neglected. If you notice any of these signs, have your vehicle suspension inspected as soon as possible. Road handling issues tied to the suspension can easily become a safety concern for drivers.
Preventative Maintenance for Shocks and Struts
The good news is that there are ways that you can maintain your suspension system. The easiest solution to extend the longevity of your suspension and the shocks or struts is to improve your driving habits. Make sure to drive slower on rough road surfaces, and avoid bumps, potholes and other hazards that may damage your suspension components.
Other preventative maintenance tips include:
- Having a service professional periodically inspect your shocks or struts for damage, wear, any leaks, or signs of corrosion.
- Tire rotations and balancing on a periodic basis.
- Having your steering system parts lubricated periodically, such as ball joints and tie-rods.
- Having your shocks or struts replaced every 50,000 miles driven, or sooner if they show signs of damage or wear and tear.
If you have concerns about your suspension system, give the service professionals at Colonial Service Station a call today and schedule your vehicle’s inspection.