HOW DO STRUTS AND SHOCKS WORK?

The suspension on your car is made up of many components, including a set of springs that absorb bumps and road impact, a set of struts that support your springs, and a set of shocks (short for shock absorbers) that limit the bounce your car experiences by absorbing residual movement in suspension springs.

Without properly maintained struts and shocks an unexpected pothole, or even a gravel road, can actually cause the wheels of a vehicle to bounce off of the ground, which can easily lead to loss of control and collision.

REPLACE SHOCKS AND STRUTS ON YOUR VEHICLE

Since well-maintained shocks and struts critically contribute to the overall safety and stability of your vehicle's steering and suspension, we highly recommend having shocks and struts serviced regularly and well before there is an issue. That said, if you observe any of the following symptoms while you are in your vehicle or looking under the hood, it may mean it has time to bring your vehicle to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care center for service right away:

SHOCK AND STRUT REPLACEMENT SYMPTOMS OBSERVABLE WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE

• Excessive vehicle bouncing
• Nose of the vehicle dips down, especially when coming to a stop
• The vehicle sways and leans when turning corners or changing lanes
• Not enough bounce; the ride seems stiff
• Steering response is poor, or noise is heard when steering
• Feels very unstable at high speeds

SHOCK AND STRUT REPLACEMENT VISUAL OBSERVATION SYMPTOMS

• Vehicle tires are unevenly worn or show abnormally flat areas
• Shocks or struts show signs of fluid leakage
• Shock or strut bodies are dented or otherwise physically damaged
• Bushings or mounts are broken, corroded or otherwise damaged

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY SHOCKS AND STRUTS?

The interval for shock and strut maintenance will vary depending on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions, so we recommend driver's always reference their vehicle owner's manual for manufacturer-specific service recommendations. Lost your manual? Alternately you can always contact a Firestone Complete Auto Care tire and auto service professional for maintenance recommendations that are unique to your vehicle's specifications.