Shocks vs Struts On A Vehicle

Learn more about shocks vs struts on a vehicle at Lexus of Santa Fe.
Struts and shocks play a vital role on your vehicle, but they are made in completely different ways. Both parts are key to the suspension and how it handles the road below it. The ideal suspension system helps with the ride quality and handling of your vehicle, so great struts and shocks can help create either a relaxing, pillowy soft ride or a corner-carving monster, no matter what you might want. The role shocks play is more of a singular role in the suspension system by just absorbing any bumps in the road. While struts also mitigate bumps from the road, they also serve a larger structural role by bringing support to the chassis of the vehicle, especially if you are offroading. Both are there to make sure every drive you take is as smooth as the last one, so making sure they’re in good condition will help you a lot.

What Do Shocks Do On A Car?
Shock absorbers control the movement of a car’s suspension for maximum performance. This makes them important for your vehicle because, when they fail, the vehicle won’t be able to absorb as many bumps in the road. If you are the daring type and love to go offroading, some great shocks can go a long way toward making sure you’re having a good time. On a fast car, drivers generally want a stiff suspension for improved cornering abilities, while drivers of a luxury car may need a soft suspension for a comfortable ride.

What Do Struts Do?
Struts perform two specific functions on your car, they help soften bumps in the road, but unlike shock absorbers, they also provide structural integrity for the vehicle. While both parts are instrumental in each drive you take in the car, struts have a larger role on the car. High-performance struts are crafted to give a vehicle impressive performance at higher speeds, while struts on a Sport Utility Vehicle may be required to balance aggressive offroad needs while also giving drivers increased control.

How Do I Know If My Shocks Are Bad?
The quickest way to identify that your suspension is bad is if the car doesn’t feel quite right. The small differences in your vehicle performance can be large indicators of issues. Tiny changes like the vehicle leaning excessively while making a turn, your car bouncing more than usual, or just difficulty handling of your car are some simple insights that your vehicle may need suspension repair. So pay attention when you get behind the wheel, take a moment to evaluate any differences in your car’s performance, and when you feel like something is off, our skilled service technicians are here to help you.
Schedule Service at Lexus of Santa Fe
Stop by and see the professionals at Lexus of Santa Fe for your next car service in Santa Fe. You can meet with our service team and get your Lexus assessed to make sure your vehicle is operating at its best. Visit us online or in person to schedule your appointment.
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