Suspension Struts & Shocks

Your suspension system helps you stay in control when you’re on the road. Your vehicle’s suspension system controls how your car manages the road, how it maneuvers and provides passenger comfort over bumps, etc. The integral parts are shocks and struts. When worn, you may experience swaying around corners and excessive bouncing when you pass over a road bump.

Worn shocks create wear on other components of your suspension system. The reason most people replace worn shocks or struts is to improve overall ride quality.

Shocks and struts don’t need to be replaced at scheduled mileage intervals like oil changes or spark plugs, but they do wear out and eventually have to be replaced. Generally they are replaced in pairs, though they don’t have to be if one is leaking or damaged at low mileage.

Ball joints are the part of your vehicle’s suspension connecting the steering knuckles to the control arms. The ball joint, a flexible ball and socket, allows the suspension to move, and at the same time allows the wheels to steer. They loosen with age/time. You may hear a “clunking” sound when you pass over a bump, indicating the joint is loosening. As it loosens there is more play in the joint which affects wheel alignment and tire wear.

If you’re feeling ANY symptoms don’t ignore this—the joint can fail and you’ll lose control of your car.

Suspension Symptoms or Warnings:

• Fluid leaking out of the Shock or Strut Body

• Dented or damaged Shock or Strut Bodies

• Mounts or bushings are broken or worn

• Uneven tire wear

• Vehicle sways or leans on turns

• Vehicle “nose dives” when you applying the brakes

• Excessive “bouncing” after going over a road bump

• “Clunking” noise when driving over a bump

• Harsh, bumpy or shaky ride

• Steering is stiff or makes noise

Suspension, struts, steering repair and service with over 30 years experience throughout Covina, Glendora, Duarte, Baldwin Park, Claremont, La Verne and beyond.