Most drivers don’t think much about their car’s suspension until something starts to feel off. But struts and shocks play a huge role in both comfort and safety. They help control how your car handles bumps, corners, and braking, and when they start to wear out, your vehicle can become unpredictable on the road.
Worn shocks and struts don’t fail overnight. Instead, they deteriorate slowly, often without obvious warning signs. Recognizing the early symptoms is key to staying safe and avoiding additional wear on your tires, brakes, and steering components.
What Shocks and Struts Do
Struts and shocks are two types of suspension components, and while they’re often mentioned together, they’re not identical. Shocks (short for shock absorbers) are standalone components that help control the movement of the suspension and keep your tires in contact with the road. Struts, on the other hand, combine shocks and structural support into one assembly, especially in front-wheel drive vehicles.
Both play a crucial role in stabilizing your vehicle as it drives over bumps, takes corners, and responds to braking. Without properly functioning shocks or struts, your car would bounce excessively and be much harder to control.
Signs That Your Suspension May Be Worn
You don’t need to be a mechanic to notice when something isn’t quite right with your ride. Some of the most common symptoms of worn struts or shocks include:
- A bouncy or rough ride
- Nose-diving when braking
- Excessive body roll around corners
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Fluid leaking from the shock or strut body
Another thing to watch for is a longer-than-usual stopping distance. When shocks and struts are worn, your car’s weight shifts more dramatically during braking, which can reduce traction and increase how long it takes to stop.
Why Worn Shocks and Struts Are a Safety Issue
Many people think of suspension issues as more of a comfort problem than a safety concern, but that’s not the full story. Your suspension directly affects your ability to steer, stop, and stay in control of your vehicle.
When struts or shocks begin to fail, your tires may lose contact with the road surface more easily, especially on uneven pavement or during quick maneuvers. This can lead to reduced grip, longer braking times, and poor handling in emergency situations.
A worn suspension system also puts extra strain on your tires and alignment, leading to uneven tread wear and a shorter tire lifespan.
How Long Should Shocks and Struts Last
There’s no exact mileage that fits every vehicle, but most shocks and struts should last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions. If you frequently drive on rough roads, carry heavy loads, or take sharp turns, your suspension may wear out sooner.
Regular inspections can help you monitor their condition. Most drivers don’t realize their struts or shocks are worn until their vehicle fails an alignment check or their tires start wearing unevenly.
When to Get a Suspension Inspection
If your ride has become noticeably rougher or harder to control, it’s a good idea to schedule a suspension inspection. You should also consider getting your shocks and struts checked if:
- You’ve recently hit a large pothole or curb
- Your vehicle sways or leans excessively when turning
- You hear knocking or clunking sounds over bumps
- You notice your car takes longer to stop than it used to
Catching these issues early can help you avoid further damage and ensure your car remains safe to drive.
Expert Suspension Service at KAMS Auto Service Center in Acworth, GA
Our team understands the importance of a reliable suspension for everyday driving. Whether your vehicle is showing clear symptoms or you simply want peace of mind, we’ll inspect your shocks, struts, and related components to make sure everything is working as it should.
Call KAMS Auto Service Center in Acworth, GA, today to schedule a suspension check and keep your car safe, stable, and comfortable on the road.