Do you have to replace bad shocks?
Like tires, shocks and struts should be inspected during your vehicle’s regularly scheduled maintenance to make sure they’re working properly and aren’t showing signs of extreme wear. In most cases, they’ll need to be replaced every 50,000 miles or so.
What will happen if I don’t replace my shocks?
There are two negatives to riding on worn-out struts or automotive shocks: Safety: Worn struts result in longer stopping times and/or distances as the vehicle weight can shift (sometimes unexpectedly) during braking. This also negatively affects your ability to stay in control of your vehicle.
Is it better to replace both front and rear shocks?
However, it’s usually best to replace them in pairs, that is, both front struts and both rear shocks. The reason for this is that a new shock absorber will absorb road bumps better than the old one. So, replacing only one shock absorber may create bumpiness from side to side when driving over bumps.
What to do when your shocks and struts go bad?
When your shock absorbers do go bad you are stuck with the decision of which shock absorbers to replace. If one shock absorber is failing you could opt to replace just the one shock or strut, or you could replace the shocks in pairs. But should you?
When do shocks and shock absorbers need to be replaced?
The most common problem with shocks and struts is when they start leaking. See these photos: leaking front strut and leaking rear shock absorber. Struts and shock absorbers are filled with oil.
How can I tell if my shocks need to be replaced?
You might have noticed going over potholes and bumps isn’t as smooth as it used to be in your ride, which is probably a sign that your shocks are worn out and need replaced. A good easy way to test your shocks and make sure they’re worn out enough to be replaced is to push down hard on the trunk or the hood directly above the wheel well.
However, it’s usually best to replace them in pairs, that is, both front struts and both rear shocks. The reason for this is that a new shock absorber will absorb road bumps better than the old one. So, replacing only one shock absorber may create bumpiness from side to side when driving over bumps.
When your shock absorbers do go bad you are stuck with the decision of which shock absorbers to replace. If one shock absorber is failing you could opt to replace just the one shock or strut, or you could replace the shocks in pairs. But should you?
How often should I replace my shocks on my car?
Signs that your shocks may need attention include: Struts are wear items that absorb countless bumps in the road, which is why replacing struts on a car is recommended every 50,000 miles. What’s the difference between shocks and struts? The words “shocks” and “struts” are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing.
Is it okay to replace only one shock absorber?
The reason for this is that a new shock absorber will absorb road bumps better than the old one. So, replacing only one shock absorber may create bumpiness from side to side when driving over bumps. But for new vehicles, it may be okay to just replace only one strut or shocks since the opposite side is still okay.