Shock and Strut Replacement in Plainfield, CT
Without any form of shock absorption, our vehicles would be instruments of torture. Every bump on the road would be felt, and pretty soon our vehicles would self-destruct, let alone impact our bodies.
The shock absorbers on our cars provide a comfortable ride and cushion the blows transmitted through the tires and chassis whenever we drive over a bump, helping our vehicles hug the road. Over time, shock absorber components wear down and eventually fail, rendering our vehicles uncomfortable and unsafe.
Our article takes a close look at strut and shock replacement in Plainfield, CT, and everything that owners need to know about such matters.
What are Shocks?
A vehicle's shocks, otherwise referred to as shock absorbers, are hydraulic pumps that work alongside your car's suspension system to control the up-and-down movement of the suspension system as it tackles varying road surfaces.
Many suspension designs employ shock absorbers that are separate from the springs and other components.
Energy from the movement of the suspension components is dissipated through the shock using the dampening action of the hydraulic fluid acting on pistons and oil passages.
This dissipation of energy that would otherwise cause our vehicles to bounce and buck ensures a smooth ride and essential control of our vehicles so that the tires maintain full contact with the road surface, crucial for safe road handling, steering, and braking.
What are Struts?
The struts are a major structural component of your car's suspension system that supports the vehicle's weight by replacing the functions of the upper control arm and upper ball joint used in conventional suspensions, helping support the weight of the vehicle, maintain proper wheel alignment, and handle lateral loads while cornering.
Thanks to its integrated design, which comprises both a shock absorber and a housing that connects to the steering knuckle, a strut is lighter and takes up less space than the separate shock absorbers used in conventional suspension systems.
Shocks vs. Struts: What's the Difference?
There is always some confusion between shocks and struts on a vehicle. Both these parts are vital components of the suspension system, but each performs differing functions due to their design and application.
The struts, as we have learned, are an integrated unit that supports the vehicle's chassis and body, whereas the primary role of the shock absorbers or shocks is to control or dampen suspension movement.
Typically, struts are used in front-wheel drive vehicles because of the weight-saving and more compact design, the most common type being the MacPherson strut, which uses the top of the strut as the upper steering pivot.
Signs You Need Shock and Strut Replacement
There are several signs that owners should look out for indicating that their vehicle's need strut and/or shock replacement in Plainfield, CT.
Easy to spot are any excessive bouncing or swaying after hitting a bump in the road, or excessive leaning when tackling corners.
A bumpy or uncomfortably rough ride that causes you to feel every bump and imperfection in the road is a sure sign that your shocks or struts, if applicable, are no longer effectively absorbing these road-induced shocks, which will affect both the ride quality of your car and its safe handling.
Upon heavy braking, if the nose of your car dips, your shocks or struts are no longer keeping your vehicle stable and level, compromising the effectiveness of your car's braking.
Similar to nose-diving but experienced at the rear, your vehicle squatting at the rear when accelerating is a sure sign of worn shocks. Uneven tire wear, visible fluid leaks from the shocks or struts, any unusual noises, or difficulty steering can also indicate a problem requiring shock or strut replacement.
Benefits of Timely Shock and Strut Replacement
Having looked at some signs that your shocks or struts need replacement, it goes without saying there are benefits to timely shock and strut replacement.
Improved Ride Quality
Tired, worn-out shocks and struts can lead to your vehicle becoming dangerously unstable, particularly noticeable when cornering, on rough roads, and especially in emergency situations. New shocks or struts allow your vehicle to offer optimal ride quality regardless of road conditions.
Enhanced Vehicle Handling
Your vehicle's handling will be greatly improved with the installation of new shocks or struts when they are worn out. Undulating and high-speed cornering will be more controlled and comfortable.
Increased Tire Lifespan
Worn shocks and struts will, over time, place unwanted additional stress and wear and tear on other suspension and steering components like the control arms, ball joints, bushings, and your car's tires.
Avoid premature replacement of tires and avoid any potential expensive repairs to suspension parts with the timely replacement of shocks and struts.
How Often Should You Replace Shocks and Struts?
You should typically get strut and shock replacement in Plainfield, CT, every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the driving conditions, driving habits, and, of course, the vehicle type.
It's recommended to have your shocks and struts inspected according to the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. However, shocks and struts should be replaced as soon as you experience any of the above shared signs of worn components.
Cost of Shock and Strut Replacement
Costs of shock and strut replacement vary significantly according to factors like the type of vehicle, type of suspension system, and labor costs.
Typical pricing ranges from $450 up to $1,100 for a complete replacement, including parts and labor.
Professional Strut and Shock Replacement in Plainfield, CT
Unless you are a competent DIY mechanic, this job is best left to professional workshops like a Mazda Authorized Service Center, which knows your Mazda's service requirements intimately, ensuring correct parts are fitted to OEM specs along with proper realignment of suspension components after the replacement.
Get Shock and Strut Replacement at Central Mazda
Be sure to contact the service team at Central Mazda to get your Mazda booked in for its next strut and shock replacement in Plainfield, CT.
Central Mazda's Mazda-trained technicians will give you and your vehicle the best and most convenient service experience.
