Everything You Need to Know About Your Car’s Shocks & Struts

The shocks and struts on your car are essential to keeping your car on the road and you and your family safe while driving. You’ve probably heard about shocks and struts before, but do you know exactly what they do? Or even more importantly, how you can maintain them so they perform their job correctly? Don’t worry, The Auto Man is here to answer all of your shocks and struts questions. Learn more about your car or trucks shocks and struts below, or check out the video of my segment on San Diego Channel 6 News to see the difference between working shocks and worn shocks.

 What do my car’s shocks and struts do?

Shocks and struts are needed to maintain your vehicle’s balance and stability while driving. In other words, they are what are responsible for keeping your car flat on the pavement! This helps you keep control of your vehicle so it is not bouncing off the ground due to bad weather, rough terrain or simple potholes.

The spring in your car’s suspension works to absorb the impact your car gets from hitting a bump or pothole in the road. Your struts provide support for your suspension springs, and your shocks work to dampen the subsequent spring movement so that your car doesn’t continue to bounce.

How do I know if I need to replace my vehicle’s shocks or struts? 

If you find your vehicle isn’t running as smoothly as it used to, or if you’re having difficulty controlling your vehicle while on the road, you might be experiencing problems with your shocks or struts. Shocks and struts can be tricky. Usually by the time that you notice something is wrong, you have been long overdue for a new part. That’s why it’s important to have this system regularly checked out to ensure it’s in proper working order.

If you notice any of the following occurrences, you should bring your automobile to your auto repair shop right away:

• Your car bottoms out after going over a bump in the road.
• The front end of your car dips forward when breaking.
• You notice fluid leaking from the shock or strut.
• Your car sways on a winding road or when turning
• You feel you have less control over the vehicle while driving.

How often should I check my car or truck’s shocks and struts?

Your shocks and struts typically last from 80,000 to 100,000 miles if they aren’t hit or damaged, but it’s still important to have them checked by a trusted mechanic along the way. Your local auto repair shop can check them for you, so next time you go in for an oil change or another auto maintenance services, simply ask them to take a quick look at your shocks and struts as well. You can also have them looked at during your annual state inspection.

What problems could occur if I drive on bad shocks and struts?

Your shocks and struts are an intricate part of your vehicle, and interact with your car’s suspensions, steering and alignment systems. Bad shocks and struts can lead to excessive tire wear and excessive suspension wear, costing you extra money on auto repairs down the road. They also directly affect how you are able to handle and control your vehicle on the road, a vital element in keeping you and your family driving safely.

How much does it cost to have my shocks and struts replaced?

The price of getting your car’s shocks or struts replaced varies by the year, make and model of your car. Typically, shocks are not too expensive to have replaced, but struts can run on the high end. In some new cars to replace the struts on the front-end of the car alone can be around $1,000. It’s essential to get a wheel alignment as well anytime you get your shocks or struts replace because of how closely these systems work together.

Where can get my shocks and struts repaired in Escondido, CA?

Shocks can be difficult to handle, and the pressure the struts are under with the suspension springs can make them dangerous. If you think you might be having trouble with your shocks and struts, bring your car in to the auto repair experts at one of our three locations. Our friendly technicians provide the best shocks, struts, and auto repair in Escondido and are only a short drive from San Marcos, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Valley Center, Ramona, Vista, Oceanside and Rancho Santa Fe, CA. Simply give us a call at (760) 741-0071, schedule your appointment online, or stop by today, and let us help you have a smoother and safer ride.