Understanding the Importance of Well-Maintained Shocks and Struts
When your shock absorbers or struts go bad, it may be entertaining for kids with all the bouncing up and down, but for you, it’s an irritating and annoying experience, as if you’re driving over waves. The primary purpose of shock absorbers and struts is to prevent your car from bouncing excessively on every impact. While a bouncing vehicle may seem amusing, driving a car with compromised shocks and struts is actually dangerous.
What’s the Difference Between Shocks and Struts?
Shocks and struts are often mentioned together because they both contribute to minimizing bouncing in a car. However, their functionalities differ.
By removing one of your vehicle’s tires, you can identify which component it uses. A strut is surrounded by a large coiled spring, visible even with the tire on, creating a gap between the top of the tire and the vehicle’s frame. This spring supports the vehicle’s weight and stabilizes its height during movement.
On the other hand, the other type of damping system, known as shock absorbers, is not connected to any springs. Its sole purpose is to prevent the car from bouncing. Cars equipped with shocks still have separate springs. A vehicle will typically utilize only one of these systems.
When is it Time for Shock and Strut Replacement in Gilbert, AZ?
Determining the lifespan of suspension dampers or struts is challenging as it depends on various factors, including driving habits and road conditions. Unlike components like brake pads, shocks and struts don’t have a standard expected lifespan.
Factors such as the quality of parts, driving style, and road conditions can influence the longevity of your shocks and struts. In areas like Arizona, with newer and smoother roads, the strain on the suspension system may be less compared to regions with rougher terrain, like California.
How to Test Your Shocks and Struts
While mileage and age are not accurate indicators of shock system health, you can have your vehicle inspected by a technician to assess its condition. A professional can evaluate the car’s performance during a test drive and inspect the parts to determine their current state.
You can also perform a simple at-home test. Walk around your car and stop at each corner. Press down on the corner of the vehicle and release. The car should return to the center of gravity and stop moving. If it continues to bounce, it’s advisable to have a professional technician inspect your shocks or struts.
Duration and Cost of Shock and Strut Replacement
At Highline Car Care, we specialize in shock and strut replacement, and our experienced technicians can typically replace worn struts or shocks in approximately 45-60 minutes per corner of the car.
It’s common to replace both shocks or struts simultaneously. When only one part is replaced, it can lead to an uneven driving experience, as the new part performs better than the older ones. However, there may be exceptions for newer vehicles, and our technicians will discuss the best course of action with you.
The cost of shock absorber and strut replacement varies depending on factors such as your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Luxury or high-performance vehicles generally require more expensive parts and labor. To obtain an accurate quote, it’s best to bring your vehicle to Highline Car Care for a thorough assessment.
Schedule an Appointment for Shocks and Struts Replacement
If you notice a difference in how your vehicle handles, it’s important to diagnose the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Continuing to drive with compromised shocks and struts is not advisable. At Highline Car Care, we prioritize your safety and provide reliable shock and strut replacement services.
To schedule an appointment for shocks and struts inspection or replacement, simply reach out to our knowledgeable team. You can call our shop directly by calling or use the convenient chat feature located in the lower right-hand corner of our website. Our friendly staff will assist you in finding the best time that fits your schedule.