Many car manuals suggest replacing shocks and struts every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, there is a huge amount of variation in those numbers. Some people can put 25,000 or more miles on a car in one year; others may only drive 10,000 miles in that same time. To know if you need to replace these parts, you can perform a few simple tests to check the quality of the suspension system.
Rough Rides
A quick trip in the car or long road trip should be a smooth experience since the suspension system is designed to mitigate bumps in the road. A clear indication that something is wrong occurs if you can suddenly start feeling every bump that the car hits. Cars that pull to the side or have uneven tire tread will also make the ride feel rougher than it should be.
Visible Oil
Since the shocks and struts are visible beneath the car, you merely have to get under the car and check them. If the parts look oily or greasy, then you probably have a leak. This would be a good time to get suspension work lakewood co done to the car.
Bounce
A good indication that shocks and struts need to be replaced is how much bounce the car has. For instance, if you press up and down on the car in the front and the back, the car should only bounce once or twice, then settle. A car that keeps bouncing may need a new suspension system. Similarly, the car should not bounce when it comes to a stop after driving. If the nose of the car dips down and then bounces up, this action is another indication of suspension problems.
The suspension system on your car should last at least 4 to 5 years. However, this depends on how much you drive and the quality of the roads that you drive on. Knowing how the systems in the car work can help you decide when the car needs additional service.
