When to Replace Shocks & Struts

If you’re wondering when you should replace your shocks and struts, here’s a guide to help you decide if the time has come:

• Poor ride quality: If your vehicle no longer has the ride comfort, handling, control, and stability it had when new, the shocks or struts may be to blame. The mechanical valves that control fluid flow in shocks and struts wear over time, leading to reduced performance. Mechanical issues such as leaking seals, cracked brackets, or worn shock mounts can also lead to reduced performance and poor ride quality.
• Unsafe handling during sudden stops: If the vehicle nose-dives or becomes difficult to steer during hard braking, the shocks may no longer be able to perform as needed for safe operation. When the vehicle nose-dives, the weight is shifted off the rear tires, and they cannot contribute to stopping the vehicle as they should.
• Excessive vehicle movement: If you’re experiencing excessive body roll in turns, or if the vehicle bounces up and down excessively after hitting a bump or pothole, chances are you need new shocks or struts. If the vehicle tends to ‘fishtail’ going into or coming out of turns, worn or damaged shocks or struts may be the cause.
• Mechanical issues - A heavy fluid leak, bent piston rod, or cracked or mounting bracket indicate the need for shock or strut replacement.

Proper shock and strut performance protects your investment in tires - and your safety.

Shocks or struts that are no longer performing to spec can’t keep the tires firmly planted on the road. They tend to bounce up and down rapidly, creating a wear pattern known as ‘cupping,’ which can dramatically shorten the tires’ service life. When the tires bounce excessively, the stopping distance increases, and the vehicle's control decreases. In addition, vehicle safety systems, including ABS, Traction Control, and ESC, rely on having the tires in firm contact with the road. Without firm tire contact on the road, these systems can’t do their job as designed.