Nobody likes an uneven ride, and if you’ve recently noticed that your vehicle seems to not be handling as smoothly as it usually does, it might be time to take a look at your shocks and struts. When these components of your vehicle’s suspension break down, they’ll cause your car to bounce and can make it difficult to control your vehicle.
Due to the importance of shock and struts for vehicle safety, handling, and comfortability, you’ll want to know what they are and some answers to common questions drivers have about replacing shocks and struts.
What Are Shocks and Struts?
Shocks and struts play an integral function in your car’s suspension system, as they mitigate bumps in the road and make your car handle smoothly. While you may have heard people use the terms interchangeably, shocks and struts are actually different parts altogether.
Shocks refer to individual pieces located behind a vehicle’s tires, where they absorb shock and prevent the vehicle from bouncing. In contrast, struts are made up of multiple suspension parts that support the vehicle’s chassis.
Like shocks, struts make it easier to control a vehicle and keep drivers comfortable by absorbing shock from the road. Unlike shocks, struts are designed to keep your vehicle’s tires in position while supporting your vehicle’s steering and braking systems. As weight-bearing components, struts are also usually stronger than shocks.
Many cars have shocks at one end of the suspension and struts at the other, but some vehicles (particularly older ones) only have shocks. Your vehicle’s user manual will have more information on the specific type of suspension system in the car, and you can always take it to your mechanic if you’re ever concerned or have questions.
5 FAQs About Shock and Strut Replacement
Since your vehicle’s shocks and struts are essential for smooth handling, comfort, and safety, it’s essential you know all about the replacement process. As you try to decide if you should take your vehicle into your local shop, find out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about shock and strut replacement below:
1. When Should You Replace Shocks and Struts?
Knowing when to replace shocks and struts will vary from driver to driver based on where they live. However, it is generally recommended to replace shocks & struts every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. If you’re noticing a lot of bumpiness or unevenness in your car’s driving lately, there’s a good chance your suspension is having issues, and you’ll want to bring your vehicle in for an inspection even if you haven’t reached the 50,000-mile mark.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Replace Shocks and Struts?
Strut and shock replacement costs can be anywhere from $450 – $1,100. The cost can vary based on vehicle type, parts used, and the amount of time it takes the mechanic to perform the labor.
3. How Long Does Shock and Strut Replacement Take?
The time it takes to replace shocks and struts depends on your vehicle’s type and the mechanic’s experience level. Generally, it takes about two to four hours to replace four shock absorbers, with struts usually taking about an hour longer. However, these are only rough estimates, and you’ll want to ask your mechanic about how long it usually takes to replace struts or shocks on similar vehicles.
4. What Goes Into Shock and Strut Replacement?
To replace struts, the mechanic will disassemble the current setup on your chassis before removing the old strut. Next, a mechanic will install a new strut and re-install any parts that were disassembled during the replacement process. Since shocks are stand-alone components and not connected to a bunch of smaller pieces, they’re easier to replace. A mechanic will simply unscrew the shock and replace it with a new one.
5. Will I Need Wheel Alignment After Shock & Strut Replacement?
Typically, yes. Since strut replacement often affects the position of the tire alignment, it’s essential to ensure your tires are properly aligned before hitting the road. A qualified mechanic will ensure you have proper wheel alignment after they perform a strut and shock replacement.
6. What’s the Best Place to Get Shocks and Struts Replaced?
If you need new shocks and struts, the best place to go is a qualified mechanic that you trust. Do some research on the shops in your area, and get a couple of quotes on how much the job will cost.
Get a Smooth Ride With Chapel Hill Tire Auto
If you’re looking for the best place to get shocks and struts replaced in Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire can help. When you bring your vehicle into the shop, our certified mechanics will take a look at your car’s suspension and help you decide the next best steps. While replacing shocks and struts in your vehicle, our team will work with you every step of the way so that you can be confident when you’re on the road. Before you schedule an appointment, check out our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!
When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area.