When your vehicle feels bumpy, floaty, or unstable, there's a good chance your suspension system is trying to tell you something. Comprising shocks, struts, springs, and various supporting components, this system plays a crucial role in determining how your car rides and handles. While it may not be as flashy as a high-performance engine or as noticeable as a set of new tires, your suspension is essential to your safety and comfort on the road.
So, what exactly do shocks and struts do, how can you tell when they’re failing, and why should you care? Let’s dive into the answers every car owner should know.
What Does the Suspension System Do
The suspension system helps absorb bumps, dips, and other imperfections in the road surface. It connects your vehicle to its wheels and allows motion between the two. But its role goes beyond just smoothing out your ride. Your suspension system also:
- Maintains tire contact with the road.
- Provides stability during turns and braking.
- Supports the weight of the vehicle.
- Controls body movement and alignment.
A healthy suspension system helps your tires last longer, improves braking performance, and makes your driving experience more controlled and enjoyable.
The Difference Between Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts are often mentioned together, but they are not the same part.
Shock absorbers, commonly referred to as shocks, are hydraulic components designed to control the movement of your vehicle’s springs. They reduce bouncing by converting kinetic energy into heat through fluid movement.
Struts, on the other hand, are structural components of the suspension system. They include a shock absorber, but also act as a support for the vehicle's weight and provide a mounting point for the coil spring. Many front-wheel-drive vehicles use struts in the front suspension and shocks in the rear.
Your car may have all shocks, all struts, or a combination of the two depending on its design.
Signs You May Need Suspension Repair
Because the suspension wears down gradually, it’s not always easy to spot when something is wrong. But there are a few symptoms that should never be ignored:
- Bouncing After Hitting a Bump: If your car continues to bounce several times after a bump, your shocks or struts may be worn out.
- Nose Diving While Braking: A front-end dip when braking can indicate poor shock absorption, which affects your stopping distance.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Bad suspension can prevent even contact between tires and the road, leading to irregular tread wear.
- Pulling to One Side: While this can also point to alignment issues, it’s sometimes related to failing suspension components.
- A Rough or “Floaty” Ride: Feeling like your vehicle is drifting or rocking side to side is often a suspension issue.
Any of these symptoms should prompt a visit to your repair shop for a full suspension inspection.
How Suspension Problems Can Affect Safety
When your suspension system begins to fail, your ability to control the vehicle decreases. You may find it harder to steer or brake effectively, especially during emergency maneuvers. The extra bouncing and swaying can increase stopping distances and reduce traction, particularly in wet or icy conditions.
Worn shocks and struts can also cause more strain on other systems, including tires, brakes, and steering components. Letting these issues go unresolved not only reduces ride quality but can also lead to more expensive repairs in the future.
When Should You Replace Shocks or Struts
Unlike oil changes or tire rotations, there isn’t a specific mileage at which shocks and struts must be replaced, but many manufacturers recommend inspecting them every 50,000 miles. If your commute is especially rough, like frequent potholes, gravel roads, or towing heavy loads, you may need service sooner.
Technicians typically check for leaking fluid, damaged mounts, and worn bushings as indicators that your suspension is nearing the end of its lifespan. Even if only one component is damaged, it's common practice to replace shocks or struts in pairs (either front or rear) to maintain even handling and ride quality.
Why Regular Inspections Matter
Because suspension issues often develop gradually, drivers become accustomed to the changes in handling and may not realize the extent of the performance loss. Regular vehicle inspections can catch worn components before they lead to costly breakdowns or unsafe driving conditions.
Many reputable shops include a suspension check during routine maintenance visits. If it’s been a while since your last inspection or you’ve noticed any signs of trouble, it’s worth having a professional take a look.
Schedule Suspension Service at Aurora AutoPros in Aurora, CO
At Aurora AutoPros, we understand how important a smooth, stable ride is for your safety and comfort. Our experienced technicians will inspect your shocks, struts, and entire suspension system to identify any wear or damage and recommend the right repairs to keep your vehicle handling like it should.
Whether you’re dealing with bouncing, pulling, or unusual noises over bumps, we’ll help you get back on the road with confidence. Schedule your suspension service today and trust Aurora AutoPros to keep your drive safe and steady.