Signs You Need to Buy New Struts: Diagnostic Methods, Risks, and Cost

Your car may be bouncing more than usual over bumps or your tires may be wearing unevenly, which are clear signs that your struts might be wearing out.

Struts usually last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, and ignoring these warning signs can lead to a rougher ride, longer stopping distances, and costly repairs.

The car may sway on turns or lean during lane changes, and clunking noises can appear when driving over bumps.

This guide will show you how to spot the most common signs, check your struts at home, understand the different types, know the risks of delaying replacement, and get an idea of the costs.

What Are Struts?

Struts are a crucial part of a vehicle's suspension system, serving multiple roles beyond just absorbing shocks.

They support the vehicle's weight, maintain wheel alignment, and contribute to braking and handling performance.

Typically, struts are found in the front suspension of most vehicles and are designed to last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance.

Types of Struts

The main types of struts include:

• Twin-Tube Struts: Most common and cost-effective. They consist of an inner cylinder with hydraulic fluid and an outer cylinder. Twin-tube struts provide a smooth ride but are less durable under extreme conditions.

• Monotube Struts: Use a single tube and separate gas chamber, offering better damping and heat handling. Ideal for high-performance or heavy-duty vehicles, they give improved handling and road feedback.

• Gas-Charged Struts: Filled with pressurized nitrogen gas to reduce foaming and improve damping. These struts are more responsive and provide a smoother ride on uneven roads.

• Coilover Struts: Combine a coil spring and shock absorber into one unit. Coilovers allow adjustable ride height and stiffness, commonly used in performance or sports cars.

• Air Struts: Replace traditional coil springs with air springs, often in luxury vehicles or SUVs. Air struts adjust ride height and stiffness automatically, giving a very smooth ride but costing more to replace.

  
  

5 Common Signs You Need New Struts

The following are the five most common indicators:

1. A noticeable increase in bouncing after hitting bumps or potholes indicates that your struts may be worn out. If your vehicle continues to bounce multiple times after a bump, it can lead to an uncomfortable ride and reduced control.

2. Leaking hydraulic fluid near the strut assembly suggests that the seals have failed, leading to a loss of damping ability. Regularly inspect your struts for fluid leakage, especially after driving on rough roads.

3. Worn struts can cause uneven tire contact with the road, leading to irregular tire wear patterns. If you notice uneven tread wear or cupping, it may reduce tire lifespan and affect handling.

4. Struts play a role in braking stability. If you experience increased stopping distances or the vehicle nose-diving during braking, worn struts could be the cause.

5. Excessive swaying or leaning during turns or lane changes occurs because the struts can no longer effectively control the vehicle's body movements. This reduces stability and poses a safety risk.

   
   

Diagnostic Methods for Worn Struts

Here are the two most famous methods used to diagnose worn struts:

1. Bounce Test

   
   

   • Press down firmly on each corner of the vehicle.

   • Release and observe the response.

   • If the vehicle continues to bounce more than once, it is a clear sign that the struts may be worn out and need replacement.

2. Visual Inspection

   
   

A visual inspection involves checking the struts for signs of damage, wear, or leaks. Look for oily residue around the strut body, which indicates fluid leakage.

Examine the mounts and bushings, as worn or damaged components can cause noise and affect handling. Also, inspect for rust or corrosion, which can compromise the strut's structural integrity.

Visual inspection provides a practical way to spot issues that may not be noticeable during regular driving.

Risks of Delaying Strut Replacement

Neglecting to replace worn struts can lead to several serious issues:

• Worn struts can reduce braking efficiency, leading to longer stopping distances, which increases the risk of collisions.

• Struts contribute to vehicle stability. Worn struts can cause the vehicle to sway or bounce, especially during turns or on uneven terrain, increasing the likelihood of losing control.

• Worn struts can cause uneven tire contact with the road, reducing tire lifespan and leading to costly replacements sooner than expected.

• Struts help distribute forces across the suspension system. Worn struts can lead to excessive wear on other components, resulting in more extensive repairs.

• Driving with worn struts can make rides rougher and less comfortable, affecting overall driving experience.

  
  

Cost of Struts

The cost of struts varies depending on the vehicle type, strut brand, and labor charges. On average, a single strut costs between $150 to $300, while replacing all four struts in most passenger vehicles can total $600 to $1,200 including parts and labor.

Although the price may seem high, timely replacement prevents more expensive repairs and ensures a safer, smoother driving experience.

Check and Replace Your Struts with Flex Auto in Orlando, Florida 

Flex Auto in Orlando, can help you keep your car’s struts in great shape. Their team of auto-mechanics checks for issues like bouncing, swaying, uneven tire wear, or strange noises.

They replace worn struts quickly and make sure your car drives smoothly and safely again.

The team at Flex Auto also explains what is happening with your struts and why it matters.

This helps you understand what maintenance is needed and how it keeps your car performing well.

Regular checks with a trusted local team like Flex Auto can prevent bigger problems and make every drive in Orlando more comfortable and safe.