What are springs, shocks, and struts, why are they important to my vehicle, and what should I be aware of?
Springs, shocks, and struts form the core of your suspension, each playing a specific role in managing weight and motion.
What They Are
· Springs: These are the heavy-duty metal coils (or leaves) that actually support the vehicle's weight. They compress and expand to absorb the initial force of a bump or pothole.
· Shock Absorbers (Shocks): These are hydraulic cylinders that control the springs. Their only job is to dampen the energy so the springs don't keep bouncing indefinitely after a bump.
· Struts: A strut is a structural unit that combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into one assembly. Unlike a standalone shock, a strut is essential for keeping the wheel in the correct position and maintaining alignment.
Why They Are Important
· Stopping Power: Worn shocks and struts can increase your braking distance by up to 20% because they fail to keep the tires firmly pressed against the pavement during a sudden stop.
· Tire Life: They prevent "cupping," which are scalloped dips in the tread caused by the tire bouncing like a basketball instead of rolling smoothly.
· Structural Support: Struts are a major part of your car’s skeleton; if they fail, your wheels can lean inward or outward, destroying your tires and making the car dangerous to steer.
What to Be Aware Of
· The "Nose Dive": If the front of your car dips sharply toward the ground when you hit the brakes, your struts or front shocks are likely shot.
· Leaking Fluid: Shocks and struts are filled with oil. If you see wet, oily residue on the outside of the component, the internal seals have failed and may require replacement soon.
· The Bounce Test: Push down hard on a corner of your car. If it bounces more than once or twice before settling, the dampening provided by the shocks is gone.
· Replacement Pairs: You should always replace these in axle pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure the vehicle remains level and handles predictably.