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Answering Commonly-Asked Questions About Shocks and Struts

Though they sound similar, struts and shock absorbers have very distinct characteristics and purposes that help to stabilize your vehicle. They not only control your comfort while driving, but also help maintain stability when braking, cornering, or accelerating. We will be answering the most frequently-asked questions about shocks and struts to help you better understand your vehicle, as well as how to maintain a healthy suspension system.

Shock absorbers and struts, or strut assemblies, are hydraulic components that help to support a vehicle and dampen movement for a quieter, more comfortable ride. Shocks and struts may be charged with oil or air, and are designed to compress when the suspension articulates to prevent excessive suspension and vehicle movement and lessen the effect of impact. Every vehicle on the road today has shocks, struts, or a combination of the two, and these components can wear out over time due to use, disuse, and road or environmental conditions.

What Are Shocks On A Car?

Shocks use hydraulic oil or air sealed into a cylinder that connects at one end to the suspension and the other to the chassis and compresses as the vehicle moves to absorb impact. Shock absorbers function as a motion dampener, providing a smoother and quieter ride for passengers. Though we wouldn’t recommend driving without shock absorbers, it would be possible as they only support motion dampening but not the suspension’s geometry or structure.

What Are Struts On A Car?

Struts are structural components in a vehicle’s suspension system. Struts help support the overall suspension and alignment using integral coil springs, mounts, and in some cases, bearings and bushings that allow the vehicle to be turned. Struts have nearly the same internal components that make up a shock absorber, but also include more structural components that allow them to function as a unit. Because strut assemblies are integral to the vehicle’s suspension, it would be impossible to drive without them installed.

What Is The Difference Between Shocks and Struts?

The shocks and struts on a vehicle are both a part of the suspension system, but function very differently to provide for smooth and safe operation. While shocks and struts both help provide a safer and more comfortable ride, struts provide structural support to a vehicle, whereas shocks only dampen motion. Each of these parts are key components to a vehicle’s stabilization and overall ride quality, and help to support a vehicle in different ways. A bad shock absorber or failing strut can cause excessive suspension movement, which may cause a rougher ride, bouncing, vibrations, and premature tire wear if they no longer dampen suspension movement appropriately.
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