Suspension > Shocks and Struts

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Shocks and struts control how your vehicle's suspension responds to road inputs — dampening bounce, maintaining tire contact, and keeping handling predictable under braking and cornering. Struts are structural components that also support vehicle weight; shocks are dampers only. Both wear gradually, typically needing replacement between 50,000–100,000 miles depending on road conditions and driving style. Air suspension components often fail sooner, especially in cold climates. When buying, decide between complete strut assemblies (which include the spring and mount, saving alignment time) versus bare struts or cartridges (lower cost, more labor). OEM replacements match factory ride characteristics; aftermarket brands like KYB, Monroe, Bilstein, and Gabriel offer options from budget-friendly to performance-tuned. Always confirm fitment by year, make, model, and trim — spring rates, extended lengths, and mounting hardware vary significantly even within the same nameplate. Signs you need replacement Excessive bounce or float after hitting a bump. If your vehicle continues to oscillate more than once or twice after a dip or pothole, the damping fluid inside the shock or strut is likely depleted or leaking. Oil streaks or wet residue on the shock body. A visible film of hydraulic fluid running down the shock body is a definitive sign of seal failure — a leaking shock or strut should be replaced promptly, not monitored. Nose-diving under braking or body roll in corners. When shocks and struts lose damping capacity, weight transfer becomes exaggerated — you'll notice the front end dipping sharply during stops or the car leaning heavily in turns. Clunking, knocking, or rattling over rough pavement. Worn strut mounts, jounce bumpers, or loose shock hardware produce metallic clunks when the suspension reaches full compression or rebound — often louder in cold temperatures. Uneven tire wear, especially cupping or scalloping. A shock or strut that can no longer keep the tire fi

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