What Is The Difference Between Struts and Shocks On A Car or Truck?

Know what the difference is between struts and shocks on a car or truck from Finnegan Chevrolet Buick GMC.
Shock Absorbers and struts play a vital function on your vehicle, but they function in completely unique ways. Both struts and shock absorbers are essential to any vehicle's suspension and how it manages the road below it. The ideal suspension system helps with the handling and ride quality of your vehicle, so great struts and shock absorbers can help create either a relaxing, pillowy soft cruiser or a corner-carving monster, no matter what you might need. Shock absorbers have a focused role in the suspension system by just absorbing any bumps in the road. While struts also smooth out bumps from the road, they also serve more of a structural role by supporting the vehicle chassis, especially when you are offroading. Both are there to make sure every drive you take is as smooth as the previous one, so making sure they're in good shape will benefit you greatly.

How Do Drivers Know If My Struts Are Bad?
The easiest way to tell that your shocks are failing is if your car doesn't drive quite right. The small changes in performance can be noticeable if you're paying attention. Small things like your vehicle leaning excessively while turning, your vehicle bouncing more than usual over small bumps, or general issues handling of your car are some easy insights that you may need suspension repair. So the next time you go for your next drive, take a second to see if you notice any differences in your car's performance, and if you notice any issues, our skilled technicians are ready to help.

What Do Shock Absorbers Do?
Shock absorbers control the suspension travel on your car for maximum performance, or more simply put, they absorb the potholes in the road for a smooth ride. This makes them important for your vehicle because, without them, the vehicle will not be able to absorb as many bumps. If you are the adventurous sort and love to go offroading, some beefy shocks can do a lot to make sure you are having a good time. On a racecar, drivers generally want a stiff suspension for improved handling, while owners of a luxury car may look for a softer suspension for a relaxing ride.

What Are Struts?
Struts have 2 main jobs on your car, they help absorb bumps in the road, but they also provide structural support for the suspension. While both parts are instrumental to every Sunday cruise you take in the car, struts have a bigger role on the car. Performance struts are aimed to give a car impressive performance at higher speeds, and struts on an SUV may be asked to balance aggressive offroad characteristics while also giving you increased control.
Schedule Sugar Land Chevrolet Buick GMC Suspension Service
Do you want to know more about what the difference is between struts and shocks on a car or truck? Finnegan Chevrolet Buick GMC is happy to help. Our team of service professionals is happy to assess your car, truck, or SUV to make sure your vehicle is operating at its best. Visit us in person or online to schedule your suspension service appointment today.