Diyvehiclerepair
Several common signs can warn you that shock absorbers or struts need replacing, such as when your vehicle bottoms out over railroad tracks, speed bumps or dips in the road, or it keeps bouncing well after the fact. ... If the vehicle continues to bounce after you let go, your shocks need replacing.
- What do bad shocks and struts sound like?
- What happens if you don't replace struts?
- What is the difference between a strut and a shock?
- Do I need to replace all 4 shocks at once?
- What is the clunking noise when going over bumps?
- What causes a clunking noise when going over bumps?
- How much do new struts cost?
- Is it OK to replace only one strut?
- Is it worth replacing struts on an old car?
- What do new shocks feel like?
- Are struts better than shocks?
- Are struts easy to replace?
- How much should it cost to replace shocks?
What do bad shocks and struts sound like?
Unusual noises – When shocks and struts are worn out you may hear a clunking or knocking sound. This sound is caused by metal-to-metal contact when the shock or strut bottoms out when hitting a bump. In addition, these noises could be a result in worn shock or strut mounting components.
What happens if you don't replace struts?
Safety: Worn struts result in longer stopping times and/or distances as the vehicle weight can shift (sometimes unexpectedly) during braking. ... Wear on other parts: Driving with bad struts accelerates the wear on tires, as well as other components of the suspension system, such as the springs.
What is the difference between a strut and a shock?
The major difference between shocks and struts is that a strut is a structural part of the vehicles suspension system where a shock is not. ... A strut is also a pivot point for the vehicles steering system and contains a coil spring. Because of this an alignment is always needed when replacing a strut.
Do I need to replace all 4 shocks at once?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control. ... Remember, too, that whenever the struts are replaced, it becomes important to check the alignment, as it may have changed, to protect your vehicle tires and assure maximum safety.
What is the clunking noise when going over bumps?
If you hear those annoying clunking noises when going over bumps, it means that something is wrong with the suspension system. Since the suspension system includes various parts, any of them could be faulty. These are the areas to check the next time you hear these sounds on the road.
What causes a clunking noise when going over bumps?
Here are some of the potential causes for a clunking noise when going over bumps: Bad control arm bushings. Damaged ball joints. Worn out struts.
How much do new struts cost?
To replace a pair of struts, the total cost on average is between $400 and $1000, including wheel alignment. An individual strut assembly costs approximately $150 to $350, while the labor cost is $100 to $300 for a pair.
Is it OK to replace only one strut?
It's not necessary, but it's usually recommended to replace them in pairs, for example, both front struts or both rear shocks. ... However, if your car is not very old, replacing only one strut or shock absorber may be enough, since the opposite side is not worn out yet.
Is it worth replacing struts on an old car?
Struts don't need to be replaced unless your vehicle is bouncing like it's on a pogo stick or bottoms out in potholes and over railroad tracks — or unless a mechanic finds that they're leaking fluid or have been damaged. ... The struts limit the resulting bouncing caused by the springs compressing and releasing.
What do new shocks feel like?
Bumpy ride
You'll feel bumps more, so the ride will feel rough. If you feel like you're about to lose control of your car when you drive over a bump or pothole, it's likely your shocks or struts need to be checked out.
Are struts better than shocks?
Shocks and struts are both parts of your vehicle's suspension system. ... They usually consist of a spring and a shock absorber. Struts are designed to be much stronger than shocks since they are weight-bearing components. Additionally, they help dampen vehicle jolts and improve your vehicle's steering and alignment.
Are struts easy to replace?
The good news is, some repairs are easy to do at home. Like replacing shocks and struts. It's not a job that you should attempt if you're not familiar working with vehicles, but with a little training and experience, you'll be ready to tackle the job.
How much should it cost to replace shocks?
Shock Replacement Cost
The average total cost to replace a pair of shocks will run about $250 to $580. An individual shock absorber will cost around $50 to $140 so parts alone will set you back between $100 and $280. A couple hours of labor to do the job is an additional $150 to $300.
