What Is The Difference Between Struts and Shocks On A Car?

Dec 8, 2022

Know what the difference is between struts and shocks on a car from Finnegan Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.

Shock Absorbers and struts play a crucial function on your car, but they are made in completely unique ways. Both parts are essential to the suspension and how it handles the road below it. The right suspension system helps with the ride quality and handling of your vehicle, so great struts and shocks can help create either a corner-carving monster or a relaxing, pillowy soft cruiser, no matter what you might want. The role shocks play is more of a smaller role in the suspension system focusing only on spring and suspension movement. While the struts also mitigate bumps from the road, they also have a larger structural role by bringing support to the vehicle chassis, especially if you are offroading. Both parts are there to make sure each drive you take is as tight as the last one, so keeping them in the best condition will help you a lot.

How Do Drivers Know If The Struts Are Bad?

How Do Drivers Know If My Shock Absorbers and Struts Are Bad?

The easiest way to tell that your suspension is bad is if your car doesn’t feel 100%. The tiny differences in vehicle performance can be big indicators of issues. Small things like your vehicle leaning too far while making a turn, your vehicle bouncing more than normal, or problems handling of your car can be some simple insights into the struts and shocks needing replacement. So pay attention when you jump behind the wheel, take a second to see if you notice any differences in your vehicle’s performance, and when you feel like something is wrong, our knowledgeable service technicians are ready to help.

What Are Shock Absorbers?

Shocks help control the movement of a car’s suspension for maximum performance, or more simply put, they absorb the potholes in the road for a smoother ride. Shocks are incredibly important for a vehicle because, without them, the vehicle will not be able to handle most bumps. If you are the risk-taking sort and love to go offroading, some upgraded shocks can do a lot to make sure you’re having a good time. On a fast car, drivers will probably need a stiff suspension for improved cornering abilities, while a luxury car may look for a soft suspension for a comfortable ride.

What Are Struts On A Car?

Struts perform 2 unique jobs on a vehicle, first, like a shock absorber, they help soften bumps in the road, but they also provide structural support for the suspension. While both parts are instrumental to every drive you take in the car, struts have a bigger role on the car. High-performance struts are designed to give a car impressive performance at high speeds, and struts for an SUV may be required to balance offroad characteristics while also giving you increased control.

Schedule Sugar Land Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Suspension Service

Do you want to know more about what the difference is between struts and shocks on a car? Finnegan Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram is happy to help. Our team of service professionals is happy to assess your car, truck, or SUV to make sure your vehicle is operating at its best. Visit us in person or online to schedule your suspension service appointment today.