You’ve probably seen that old minivan driving down the road, loaded to the max with kids or furniture. When it hits a bump, it continues to bounce up and down long afterward. While the sight may be a common one, and even look amusing, it’s a serious matter as the vehicle most likely needs new shocks or struts.

What’s the difference between shocks and struts?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, shocks and struts are different parts. Shocks lessen the movement of the vehicle’s springs, minimizing the bounce that you feel or see when driving. Struts have a similar function but are part of both the suspension and steering systems, affecting alignment and steering safety in addition to driving comfort.

What are the symptoms of bad shocks and struts?

Since driving safety is affected by less than perfect shots and struts, and not only comfort, it’s important to recognize when they’re going bad. You should head to your local repair shop for a thorough vehicle inspection if you notice any of the following:

• Cupped tires
• Tire shaking or vibration after hitting a bump
• Leaking hydraulic fluid
• Excessive bouncing after going over a bump
• Vehicle rocking when driving in windy conditions

When should shocks and struts be replaced?

After noticing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should schedule an appointment with your trusted auto repair technician. He or she will do a thorough inspection and determine whether the problems you’ve noticed are coming from worn out shocks and struts, or if another vehicle component is to blame. Even without noticeable signs of wear, shocks and struts are generally replaced after 50,000 miles.

Can I keep driving with bad shocks and struts?

In general, this is not recommended. In addition to having an uncomfortable ride, you may experience difficulty with steering, which then becomes a safety issue. Furthermore, since they are meant to lessen the impact of road hazards such as bumps, continual driving with worn out shocks and struts can cause other vehicle components to wear out more quickly, costing you more money in the long run.

These are answers to the most commonly asked questions about shocks and struts, but if you have more, please give us a call. We will be happy to inspect your vehicle to determine whether new shocks or struts are needed, and we will provide you with a quote for replacement costs.