What’s the Difference Between Shocks and Struts?

Although these terms are used interchangeably, shocks and struts are separate components in a vehicle’s suspension system. Both play an integral role in the function of your car’s suspension, but it’s important to understand the difference. In this article, we will explore shocks and struts, discuss the differences, and go over exactly what each component does. 

How Does Car Suspension Work?

At its core, vehicle suspension ensures that all four tires are in contact with the road at all times. Cornering, braking, accelerating, and road hazards all impact how the mass of your car or truck shifts, and the suspension system works to keep you in control and provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension system comprises many components working together to achieve this. Shocks and struts are components within the system. 

What are Struts on a Car?

Struts combine several components into one distinct unit. Unlike shocks, struts are a structural component of a vehicle’s suspension and are weight-bearing. Typically, struts will incorporate both a coil spring and a shock absorber.

Struts are far more compact than traditional suspension setups. Additionally, they tend to be much more robust since they are a weight-bearing structural component. It’s important to remember that not all vehicles utilize a strut setup in their suspension. 

What are Shocks on a Car?

Shocks are components that utilize hydraulic fluid to reduce the force translated from the road to the cabin. They also help control the compression and expansion of the springs, contributing to a smoother ride. Unlike struts, shocks are not weight-bearing or structural. They only serve to control the up-and-down movement of the suspension system.

What’s the Difference?

Struts incorporate shock absorbers in their assembly, while shocks are a standalone component. Strut assemblies can perform the functions of both shocks and springs and provide structural support.

Symptoms of Bad Shocks and Struts

Failing shocks and struts can present in a few different ways, many of which are noticeable while driving. Despite being very different components, they share some common symptoms when they start to go bad.

Bouncy Ride

When shocks or the shock absorber component within a strut assembly starts to go bad, you may notice a change in how your vehicle rides. When shock absorbers stop working correctly, they are not able to control the up-and-down movement of the suspension. As a result, your car or truck may start to feel more bouncy. You may also feel your vehicle “squat” more when you brake or press the gas. 

Tire Wear

Uneven tire wear can be a symptom of a failing shock or strut, and will often accompany a bouncy ride. As we said above, the primary role of the suspension system is to keep all four tires in contact with the road at all times. If your suspension is bouncy, the tires may not have even contact with the road at all times, resulting in uneven or premature tire wear. 

Leaking Fluid

A surefire sign of a failed shock absorber is leaking hydraulic fluid around the shock or strut. If the component has sustained damage or worn out, the hydraulic fluid inside the shock tube can start to visibly leak around the shock or strut

Clunking Noises

A worn shock or strut can also produce some unnerving noises when you go over bumps or potholes. You might hear a loud thud or metallic clunks. These sounds can originate from the shock absorber bottoming out, a broken spring on the strut assembly, or even failed mounting hardware. 

Shock and Strut Replacement at Scott’s U-Save

Regardless of whether your car has a strut assembly or conventional shocks, it’s important to get any suspension issue addressed quickly. With four locations in Schererville, Steger, New Lenox, and Crown Point, the expert teams at Scott’s U-Save have you covered with everything from diagnosis to repair. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!