Tire Balance vs. Alignment: Which One Do You Need?
Both tire balancing and alignment support a smoother ride, but they're different services. Learn the difference and signs you might need one over the other.
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Your vehicle gets you from point A to point B—and the roads you take are rarely perfectly smooth. Shocks and struts help you maintain control of your vehicle when you’re traveling over everyday bumps, uneven surfaces and potholes. They also help with braking—if you’ve noticed that your braking distance is increasing, it might be due to worn shocks and struts. Shocks and struts work together as part of your vehicle’s suspension system, but each component has its own specific job.
Shocks and struts are key parts of your vehicle’s suspension system. A bad brush with uneven roads can spell out damage and repairs in your future. If you think your shocks and struts may have been damaged, watch out for these vehicle behaviors:
How long do shocks and struts last?
Struts have a varied lifespan but the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) suggests to have them inspected after 50,000 miles. Longevity per mileage will decrease depending on your vehicle type, driving habits, and driving conditions.
How much does it cost to repair a vehicle’s shocks and struts?
How much it costs to fix shocks and struts issues depends on the scale of damage. For just one set of shocks or strut assemblies, parts and labor may cost you somewhere in the low hundreds. We generally replace shocks and struts by axle, so the front axle, rear axle, or both. You can get an estimate of the cost of any repair from our skilled technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care with a scheduled appointment.
Are there visual signs I need a shock and strut replacement?
In addition to the symptoms, you’ll notice while driving (see above), there are a few visual signs of shock and strut wear. Since they are difficult to see without taking off the tires, it’s best to have a professional take a look at your suspension system and recommend the best way to proceed. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, some of the things we’ll check for:
Shocks and struts are a very important part of your vehicle’s steering and suspension. When you need to replace your shocks or struts, you can count on the experts at Firestone Complete Auto Care to give you the best options for your vehicle type and driving style. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about shocks and struts options for your car, minivan, SUV, or truck.
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