What Are The Signs Of Worn Shocks and Struts?

Shocks and struts are key parts in stabilizing your car while driving. Letting these suspension parts get worn out will not only make your ride rougher and bumpier, but it may also put you at risk of an accident! To stay safe, you should keep an eye out for the signs of worn suspension.

What are Shocks and Struts?

Most vehicles have either shocks or struts, but some cars have both. The shocks and struts sit nearby your tires and prevent your car from bouncing up and down. Shocks are an independent part of your vehicle, while a strut is a shock combined with other components. 

How Long Do Shocks And Struts Last?

Under the average driving environment, you will get approximately 75,000 to 90,000 miles with shocks and struts. However, if you frequently use your vehicle on unpaved roads, you may have to replace them a lot sooner.

Top Signs of Worn Suspension

  1. Vehicle is Veering or Sliding - If you constantly need to correct your car when driving straight, that's a clear sign you need your suspension looked at.
  2. Uneven Wear on Tires - When your shocks and struts are worn, your tire wear is affected as they don't sit properly on the road. 
  3. Constant Pulsation - If your car ride feels unstable on well-paved roads, you most likely need new suspension parts.
  4. Longer Brake Time - If your vehicle takes longer than usual to brake, it may not just be the brake themselves; Aging shocks and struts can cause an increase in braking distance by up to 20 percent.
  5. Imbalanced Squatting During Acceleration - If your vehicle's front end seems to rise while the rear dips when accelerating, you probably have worn suspension.
  6. Fluid Leak Near Suspension - If you can see physical evidence of a fluid leak on the shocks or struts, it is time for a suspension repair or replacement.

If your vehicle's suspension system shows any of these troubling signs above, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Neighborhood Tire Pros for service. Your safety is our top priority!