Keeping your car riding smooth is a function of your suspension system, which consists of shock absorbers and struts. When both components are working correctly, your vehicle remains balanced even on a bumpy road, as the struts support the springs in your car and the shocks prevent excessive bouncing. Even in poor driving conditions, struts and shocks help you remain in control of your car.

The Importance Of Maintaining Your Shock Absorbers And Struts

While shocks and struts have a similar function of controlling the springs, struts are considered a structural component that takes the place of several conventional components of the suspension system. Shocks can be omitted, but struts are a pivot point for steering and also adjust the position of the wheels for proper alignment. Without struts, the car would fall to the ground as the wheels would lack proper support.

Most struts and shocks should be replaced around 50,000 miles, but your driving habits, weather conditions, how much load you carry, load conditions, modifications to your car, and the general condition of your tires and suspension can alter the schedule. Regardless of what type of suspension you have, both shock absorbers and struts are subject to wear and tear, fluid leakage, physical damage, and broken bushings or mountings. When these parts need replacement but you ignore the problem, your tires can wear unevenly or develop flat spots. Bad shocks and struts can make your car unsafe.

Let Cherry Park Auto Inspect Your Shocks And Struts

For best results, you should have your shocks and struts inspected by an ASE Certified Technician at Cherry Park Auto every 12,000 miles to make sure they are in good condition. The technician may notice noises or excessive sway, bounce, or dive during braking when he does a test drive or notice leaks or damage when the car is on the lift. He will recommend that you replace the parts.

If you want your car to ride more smoothly or to accommodate heavy loads that you routinely carry, your Cherry Park technician can replace you shocks at any time for better function. Whether you have new shocks put in because they are worn out or because you want an improved ride, your technician will also replace mountings, bearings, and other hardware to help your new installations work most efficiently.