Worn shocks and struts show as extra bounce, nose dive under braking, clunks and uneven tire wear. They often wear out between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
Key takeaways
- Bounce test.
- Look for leaks.
- Replace in pairs.
The bounce test
Push down on a corner. More than one rebound suggests wear.
Leaks and mounts
Oily shocks and cracked mounts.
Tire wear
Cupping.
Replace in pairs
Per axle.
Alignment
After replacement.
Why alignment follows suspension work
Replacing struts, control arms or tie rods changes the angles of the wheels. If you skip alignment, tires wear unevenly and the car may pull. An alignment also resets steering wheel position. We recommend scheduling it right after the repair while the car is already apart.
Potholes and rough roads
Potholes and railroad crossings send shock loads into the suspension. Bent control arms and damaged struts can follow a hard hit. After a pothole strike, listen for new noises and check for pulling. If the steering feels loose or the car wanders, have it inspected soon. A bent part can fail suddenly and is a safety issue.
Cost and priorities
Struts and shocks are often replaced in pairs on the same axle so the car handles evenly. Worn parts that are safety-critical, such as ball joints and control arm bushings, come first. Shocks can usually wait a little if the budget is tight. A technician can rank the items by urgency and tell you what can be scheduled and what should be done now.
Need help in south Bakersfield?
Questions about suspension repair? Read our Suspension Repair page, call (661) 599-9098 or request a time. Peña's Auto Electric, Smog & Repair, 303 Taft Hwy, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93307. Mon to Fri 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Sat 8 AM to 1 PM.
Frequently asked questions
How long do struts last?
Often 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
Do I replace in pairs?
Yes.
Does it affect braking?
Yes.
Need alignment?
Usually.