Shocks and struts are an integral part of your vehicles suspension system and road safety, having an annual suspension inspection on your vehicle performed by a trust automotive mechanic is highly recommended as you may not notice the wearing or breaking down of your shocks and struts until you vehicle has become dangerous to drive.
So, what are shocks or struts in a vehicle, what is their function and how important is this repair to your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Shock absorbers are basically oil pumps. A piston attached to the end of a piston rod works against hydraulic fluid in a pressure the tube. As the suspension travel up and down, the hydraulic fluid is forced through tiny holds into the piston. These tiny holes let only small amounts of fluid through the piston, thus slowing the piston down, which slows down the spring and suspension movement. The main function of the shock is to absorb the springs oscillations (movement back and forth), reduce the effect that traveling over rough ground has and to improve ride quality and control of the vehicle on the road by eliminate swaying and bouncing.
The strut has a similar function to the shock, but it takes a major structural part of the suspension and takes the place of the upper control arm and upper ball joint used in conventional suspension. Its primary function is to absorb movement as well as provides structural support for the vehicle suspension, supporting the spring and holding the tire in an aligned position to bear much of the side load of the suspension movement. Internally, a strut is like a shock absorber as a piston is attached to the end of the piston rod and works against hydraulic fluid to control spring and suspension movement. As a result, the strut affects the ride comfort, handling, braking, steering, wheel alignment and wear on other suspension structure.
If you have been advised by your automotive repair shop to replace you shocks or struts know that the repair needs to be done. Shocks and struts are not only responsible for ride comfort but for the handling safety of your vehicle on the roads.
Valley Eurotec Ltd. provides suspension inspections with all regular scheduled maintenance services and can provide an inspection upon request if you have concerns. We monitor our customers vehicles and note if there are concerns requiring monitoring or a repair as we know these repairs can be costly and come as a surprise. We use only OEM approved parts with warranty and installation at a fair value. We look forward to seeing you at your next service.