The shocks and struts of your air suspension system are important parts responsible for keeping your vehicle balanced and connected. Just like with any other part of your vehicle your shocks and struts will need to be maintained and replaced from time to time. Most experts agree that shocks and struts should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. As an experienced Frederick automotive repair specialist, we wanted to take some time today to discuss shocks and struts and how they should be maintained.
What Shocks and Struts Do For a Vehicle
Firstly, it’s important to know that there’s a difference between shocks and struts. Most vehicles will have one or the other. Shocks simply help absorb the bumps of the road, but struts are structural parts of a vehicle’s suspension system. Struts are also crucial parts of your vehicle’s steering system. If you’re not sure whether your vehicle has shocks or struts, then you should bring it in to a professional auto maintenance company.
Common Issues With Shocks and Struts
As someone that’s been working on shocks and struts for years, we know all of the different ways a shock or strut can malfunction and all of the different signs that they are. Here are some of the most common issues your vehicle will exhibit if there’s a problem with your shocks or struts:
- The vehicle bounces – Shocks and struts help smooth out the bumps in the road, so if you’re feeling too much of the road it may be because your shocks or struts are worn.
- The front end dives or the rear squats – Shocks and struts help to keep the chassis of your vehicle stable, so if your car is lurching it may be because your shocks and struts are malfunctioning.
- Weird noises – When a shock or strut starts to give out, you may first hear it. The metal on metal sound of a broken shock or strut will be instantly recognizable.
- The vehicle pulls to one side while driving – While there are a couple of different reasons why this may be happening, one is that your shocks and struts aren’t working properly and have become worn. If this is happening to your vehicle you should have it looked at by an experienced auto repair company.
Get Help From a Professional Auto Maintenance Company
Here at Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions, we’ve been providing our automotive repair services to Frederick and other areas of Maryland for years. Our customers always return and they recommend us to their friends and their family too, and that’s something we’re proud of. If you’re having issues with the shocks and struts on your vehicle then give us a call to schedule an appointment today.
