X

Are Shock Absorbers and Struts On A Car The Same Thing?

are shock absorbers and struts on a car the same thing?

Find out if shock absorbers and struts on a car are the same thing at Team Gillman Honda North.

Shocks and struts play a critical function on your car, but they are designed in completely different ways. Both parts are crucial to a vehicle's suspension system and how it handles the road below it. The right suspension system helps with the handling and ride quality of your vehicle, so great shock absorbers and struts can help create either a corner-carving monster or a relaxing, pillowy soft cruiser, no matter what you might desire. Shock absorbers have a focused role in the suspension system by just absorbing any bumps in the road. While struts also mitigate bumps from the road, they also serve more of a structural role by supporting the vehicle chassis, especially if you're offroading. Both components are there to ensure that each drive you take is as tight as the last one, so making sure they are in good condition will help you a lot.

 
What Do Struts Do On A Vehicle?

What Do Struts Do On My Car?

Struts have 2 specific jobs on your vehicle, first, they help soften bumps in the road, but they also provide some structural integrity for the vehicle. While each component is instrumental in each drive taken in the vehicle, struts have a bigger role on the vehicle. Performance struts are aimed to give your car impressive performance when driving at higher speeds, while struts for an SUV may be asked to balance offroad characteristics while also giving drivers increased control.

What Are Shock Absorbers?

What Are Shocks On A Car?

Shock absorbers help control the movement of a car's suspension for maximum performance, or more simply put, they absorb any bumps in the road for a smoother ride. This makes them important for your car because, when they fail, the vehicle will not be able to handle most bumps in the road. If you're the daring type and love to tackle the road less traveled, some upgraded shocks can go a long way toward making sure you are having a good time. On a racecar, drivers will probably need a stiff suspension for better cornering abilities, while a luxury car may want a soft suspension for a pillowy soft ride.

How To Tell If Shock Absorbers Are Bad?

How To Tell If Shock Absorbers and Struts Are Bad?

The easiest way to identify if your suspension is bad is if your vehicle doesn't feel quite right. The small differences in performance can be large indicators of issues. Small changes like the vehicle leaning excessively while making a turn, your shocks bouncing more than usual, or issues with the handling are some simple insights into the shock absorbers and struts needing replacement. So when you jump behind the wheel, take a second to see if you notice any differences in your vehicle's performance, and when you feel like something is wrong, our skilled service technicians are ready to help you.

Honda online car buying Houston  TX

Schedule Honda Service In Houston

Are you still uncertain if your vehicle needs shock or strut maintenance? Bring your vehicle to Team Gillman Honda North. 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.