When should car shocks be replaced?

Shocks are part of your vehicle's suspension system that aids in the car's stability and handling. The many different parts that make up the suspension and steering systems play a big role in keeping your ride smooth and safe. What is the purpose of shocks, you ask?  Consider the following:

• Helps maintain consistent handling and braking
• Keep your tires in contact with the road
• Controls spring and suspension movements
• Reduces car roll, bounce, sway, brake dive, and acceleration squat
• Prolongs the life of other components in the suspension, such as car axles
• Prevents gradual deterioration of ride quality

Shocks wear down slowly over time as the miles add up.  And because they wear gradually, by the time a driver notices an issue, it’s well past the time that they should be replaced, and damage could be occurring to other parts, such as car axles.   Many shocks may want to be replaced at 30,000 miles, while on other vehicles they can go as long as 60,000 to 100,000 miles.  How fast they wear depends largely on how you drive and the situation of the roads.  Driving consistently over bumpy streets and bad roads, your shocks and struts will want to be replaced more often than traveling short distances on the level ground every day.    

Here are various good indicators that it's time to have your shocks checked by a certified auto mechanic and replaced as compulsory:

• You notice the poor steering response.
• Steering performance is stiff.
• Your car sways when turning and changing lanes.
• Your vehicle bounces excessively when driving.
• Braking performance is unbalanced.

Are you wondering when should car shocks be replaced? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about the suspension system and to request an appointment.  Our automotive shop proudly serves car owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.