Find out if shocks and struts on a car are the same thing at Team Gillman Mazda.
Shock Absorbers and struts play a critical function on your vehicle, but they perform in entirely different ways. Both struts and shocks are essential to the suspension and how it manages the road below it. The perfect suspension system helps with the handling and ride quality of your ride, so great struts and shock absorbers can help create the best ride possible. The role shock absorbers have is more of a focused role in the suspension system focusing only on spring and suspension movement. While the struts also mitigate bumps from the road, they also serve more of a structural role by bringing support to the vehicle chassis, especially if you are offroading. Both components are there to ensure that each drive you take is as good as the previous one, so keeping them in the best condition will benefit you greatly.
Struts perform two specific functions on your car, they help soften bumps in the road, but they also provide some structural support for the suspension. While both components are instrumental in every drive you take in the car, struts have a bigger role on the car. Performance struts are aimed to give your vehicle impressive performance when driving at high speeds, while struts for an SUV may need to balance aggressive offroad needs while also giving you increased control.
Shocks help control the suspension travel on your car for maximum performance, or more simply put, they absorb the bumps in the road for a smoother ride. This makes them incredibly 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 fun behind the wheel. On a sports car, drivers will probably need a stiff suspension for improved handling, while drivers of a luxury car may need a softer suspension for a relaxing ride.
The quickest way to tell that your suspension is failing is if your car doesn't seem 100%. These small differences in your vehicle performance can be noticeable if you're paying attention. Little things like your car leaning too far while turning, your shocks bouncing more than usual over small bumps, or just problems handling of your car can be some easy insights into the struts and shocks needing replacement. So when you go for your next drive, take a second to evaluate any differences in the car's performance, and if you feel like something is wrong, our skilled technicians are here to help.
Are you still uncertain if your vehicle needs shock or strut maintenance? Bring your vehicle to Team Gillman Mazda. Our service professionals are happy to assess your vehicle and make sure it is operating at its best. Visit us online or in person to schedule your next auto service appointment. Drive a little. Save a lot. That's the Team Gillman advantage.
