My Car Rides Fine, So Why Should I Replace the Shocks and Struts?

Shocks and Struts

This is a question every technician has heard after recommending replacement of the struts and/or shock absorbers on a vehicle. This recommendation is usually made based on a test drive and a visual inspection of the vehicle’s suspension components.

Shock absorbers are one of the most important parts on your vehicle. However, most people think there are strictly used for keeping a nice, cushy ride, and maintaining stability while making a turn. While that’s a portion of the story, it’s just the opening sentence.

The 80,000 KM Rule

Most manufacturers of shocks and struts suggest a close inspection aver the average vehicle has been driven 80,000 kilometres.  Often that is when they need to be replaced.

Of course, the type and condition of roads driven, coupled with the driving style of the principle driver, will determine how long these parts will perform satisfactorily. 

During the inspection, the technician will be looking for signs of fluid leaks that indicate one reason to recommend replacement. He will also look at how the tires are wearing.

What are Shocks/Struts?

Shocks and struts are designed to control the tires, to keep them in contact with the road surface as much as possible. If vehicle tires are free to bounce (which is what happens when struts and shocks wear) they are not as effective at gripping the road, so steering, handling, and braking are all affected. Shocks and struts are not just for ride comfort:  their primary function, tire control, is a much more important role.

A Gradual Deterioration

Because the wear of shocks and struts is mostly internal and cannot be seen like worn tires or brake pads, AND because it is very gradual, the everyday driver is the last to notice the difference. A passenger riding in the vehicle for the first time may even comment on the “poor ride” that seems normal to the driver. But, regardless of how it may feel to you, worn struts and shocks will cause a change in tire wear and vehicle handling that should not go unaddressed.

Why Replace Worn Shocks and Struts?

Replacing these worn components will restore the ride control and handling the vehicle had when it was new. It also means longer tire wear. New shocks and struts also help reduce potential wear of other steering and truck, SUV or car suspension components.

Shock absorbers can be critical in safe driving, as you always want to plant those tires on the ground and keep your car from bouncing. What happens is, when you hit the brakes and have a bad shock, the tires can actually leave the ground. It could be as much as an inch or two. Every second your tire is not on the road can lead to an accident as you can lose as much as 100 feet in stopping power in a high speed situation. Plus, when you are driving, going through curves and stuff like that, all four tires should be gripping the road. You don’t want the car skipping like a rock over water; you need to take care of those shocks.

Signs of Worn Shock Absorbers

Although the best way to test your shock absorbers is through a workshop and road test by a qualified technician, there are some very distinctive signs of excessive shock absorber wear and tear you can keep an eye out for. Depending on the type of shock absorber fitted to your vehicle, they may need replacing or repairing.  If you experience any of the symptoms below in your car, call your local auto mechanic today. 

Trouble Stopping: Worn shock absorbers can add as much as 20% to your stopping distance. That's the sort of fault that can be fatal and requires immediate attention.

Nose-diving & Swerving: If the bonnet of your car dips when you brake or slow down, or your vehicle swerves under brakes, you may have a shock absorber problem.

Bad Vibes: Uncomfortable steering wheel vibration could be shock absorbers.

Side Slide: If your car veers in side winds, particularly when the wind isn't so strong, you could have shock absorber problems.

Shake, Rattle & Roll: Notice that your car 'rock and rolls' over bumps, railway tracks or uneven surfaces? Not hugging the bends? Time to get those shock absorbers checked then!

Uneven Tire Wear: If your tires are wearing unevenly, particularly if there are bald patches, odds are it's your shock absorbers.

Dangers of NOT Replacing Shocks and Struts

Monroe, the world's leading brand of shock absorbers, has identified the top ten dangers associated with worn shock absorbers:

1. Reduced braking efficiency resulting in longer stopping distances
2. Reduced efficiency of Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESP)
3. Increased risk of skidding in the wet
4. Aquaplaning occurs at lower speeds
5. Less control when cornering or caught in a cross wind
6. Increased driver tiredness and reduced speed or response
7. Increased wear of tires and other suspension components
8. Uneven/oscillating headlight level causing dazzle to on-coming drivers
9. Increased passenger discomfort
10. Increased risk of ‘Snaking'’ when towing

Replace Struts and Shocks in Pairs.

Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions. Remember, too, that whenever the struts are replaced, it becomes important to check the alignment, as it may have changed, to protect your vehicle tires and assure maximum safety.