When Should I Replace My Shocks or Struts?

 

🚗 Bouncy, Squeaky, and Slightly Terrifying? Time to Replace Your Shocks or Struts

You ever hit a pothole and feel like your car just relived its rebellious teenage years? If your ride’s been bouncing, dipping, or generally feeling like a mechanical bull at a rodeo, it might be time to check your shocks or struts.

Let’s talk about why these unsung heroes of your suspension system deserve a little love—and possibly a replacement.

🛞 1. Comfort: Because You’re Not Driving a Go-Kart

Shocks and struts help smooth out all the chaos from the road—potholes, speed bumps, and that mystery ripple in the pavement that always shows up right before your morning coffee hits your lap.

Worn-out shocks = bouncier ride = spilled coffee and possibly some colorful language.

🛑 2. Control: Staying on the Road Is Kinda Important

When your shocks or struts are toast, your car starts acting like it’s auditioning for Fast & Furious: Wobbly Drift Edition. You might notice:

  • The front end diving when you brake

  • The rear end feeling like it’s got a grudge during turns

  • General “why is my car doing this” energy

Good suspension keeps your tires glued to the road, which is important unless you enjoy the thrill of unpredictability at 65 mph.

🔄 3. Save the Tires, Save Your Wallet

Bad shocks = uneven tire wear = expensive tire replacements.

Think of your shocks as the buffer zone between your tires and the mean streets. When they go bad, everything from tires to other suspension parts starts suffering. And your wallet? It weeps.

🌧️ 4. Wet Roads and Hydroplaning: Not a Vibe

Worn shocks mean less consistent tire contact with the road. That’s not just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous, especially in rain or on slick roads.

Hydroplaning may sound like a cool water sport, but in your car? Hard pass.

⏱️ When to Swap 'Em Out?

Generally, you should replace shocks/struts every 50,000 to 100,000 miles—or when your car starts acting like it’s possessed. Watch for:

  • A bouncier-than-usual ride

  • Nose-diving when braking

  • That “boaty” feeling in turns

  • Leaking fluid

  • Tires that look like they’ve been chewing gum instead of pavement

Final Thoughts

Your shocks and struts may not be flashy, but they do a lot of work behind the scenes to keep your ride smooth, safe, and drama-free. If your car feels like it’s training for a bounce house competition, it might be time to give your suspension system some TLC.

Trust us—your spine, your tires, and your coffee cup will all thank you.


For more information, reach out to our team of professionals!

Make an appointment today!


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