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Shocks, Struts and Coil Spring Replacement

 

Your suspension system helps you stay in control when you're on the road.  Our Driveway Doctors' mechanics can help ensure your safety by keeping your suspension system up to every twist and turn that the road may bring.  The vehicle's suspension system helps provide a comfortable and safe ride, ensuring the wheels stay in contact with the road.   If the ride has gotten bumpy, it's time to have the suspension system checked out.

 

Signs of Bad Shocks, Struts or Worn Springs:

- a bouncy or uncomfortable ride

- bottoming out

- the front end of the vehicle diving or loss of control while making a sudden stop

-the vehicle swerving more than normal while changing lanes, and

-the vehicle sags in the front or the rear.

 

Warning Signs:

Fluid leaking out of the shock or strut body

Shock or strut bodies are dented or damaged

Mounts or bushings are broken or worn

Cupped, uneven tire wear

Vehicle sways or leans on turns

Vehicle "nose dives" when you apply the brakes

Excessive bouncing after hitting a road bump

Harsh, bumpy or shaky ride

Steering is stiff or makes noise

 

 

A car inspection will help identify whether new shocks, struts or other suspension service are needed.

 

SHOCKS SERVICE -

Shocks are designed to provide measured resistance every time the wheels on the vehicle bounce up and down or when the vehicle's chassis leans as you make a turn.   This obviously helps smooth out the driving experience.   Shocks can wear out in as little as 25,000 miles to 30,000 miles due to the constant motion the car is subjected to.   It is recommended that the shocks are checked about once a year or so for overall safety and comfort.

 

STRUTS SERVICE -

Most front-wheel drive cars now have a McPherson strut suspension system, which combines coil springs and shocks into one unit.   Struts control spring and suspension movement to keep the tires in contact with the road.   Struts cost more but typically have a longer life than conventional shock absorbers.   However, struts also experience wear and many manufacturers recommend they are checked about once a year or so.

 

COIL SPRING SERVICE -

Coil springs work with your shocks and struts to keep vehicle bounce to a minimum.   All springs sag with age, as the springs weaken over time.  Coil springs should be checked about once a year or so for your comfort and safety. 

 

A shock absorber resists constant bouncing, using hydraulics.   That’s all it does.   Struts are more complex.   They combine shock absorption with steering elements and support for the vehicle. Shocks are more common on trucks and SUVs, while struts are common on cars.   Sometimes you find both—one in the front and the other in the back.   Struts are more expensive, because they are more complex.   A car or truck has what it has; you can’t switch from shocks to struts.   Struts and shocks are very similar in function, but very different in design.   The job of both is to control excessive spring motion; however, struts are also a structural component of the suspension.

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The Wicked Good Mechanics

265 Franklin Street, Suite 1702 Boston, MA 02110

service@drivewaydocs.com

1-800-391-8982

© 2014 by the Wicked Good Mechanics

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