Description:
Struts are
used on the front end of almost all front-wheel-drive
vehicles. Technically known as MacPherson struts, they’re much more than a
shock absorber with a different name. A strut integrates numerous suspension
parts into one compact assembly, including the coil spring,
spring seats, shock absorber, strut bearing, and steering knuckle. The shock
absorber portion of the strut is the most commonly
serviced portion of the strut assembly.
Purpose: Because it integrates
different components into one assembly, a strut serves multiple
purposes. With its spring, it can support the weight of the vehicle,
while moving to adapt to road irregularities. The internal shock
absorber dampens movement of the
spring
as it compresses and rebounds during vehicle
travel. The strut housing serves as a structural part of the suspension
system and connects the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint
so that the entire assembly can pivot when the steering wheel
is turned.
Maintenance Tips/Suggestions:
Your
vehicle’s struts should be checked once a year,
usually in conjunction with a wheel alignment. Under normal conditions, the shock
absorber portion—the strut cartridge—wears out gradually and you may not notice
incremental losses in ride quality, handling and control. Some signs that
your vehicle may have worn struts include bottoming out, excessive bouncing, rocking
back and forth, drifting or
nose-diving while
braking, swaying, or
cupping wear
on the tires. If your car needs
MacPherson strut service, it may also be a good time to
replace the coil springs. Since they usually need to be removed
when changing struts, you can save labor costs by installing new
springs at the same time. For a
complete check of your vehicle’s suspension system, have it thoroughly
inspected by a qualified service technician.
