Shocks vs Struts: What's the Difference?
When it comes to discussing the different parts of a vehicle's suspension, the terms shocks and struts are often used interchangeably. However, these two components are not synonyms, each possesses its own unique characteristics while playing the same role within the vehicle's suspension system.
The suspension system of a vehicle is responsible for smoothing out the ride and keeping the car in control. The specific parts that perform these functions are the shock absorbers and springs. At a basic level, the primary difference between a shock and a strut lies in the fact that a strut is a more complex piece than a shock. An uncomplicated way of explaining it would be: A strut is a shock absorber built into one cohesive part with a coil spring attached.
However, we won’t just leave you with this simple explanation. This blog post will delve further into the nitty gritty details of shocks and struts, what they do, how they work, and why understanding their differences is necessary for the optimal performance of your vehicle.
Shocks vs Struts: A Deep Dive into Shocks
Before we jump into the details of shocks, it's essential to understand that shock absorbers are key components of a vehicle's suspension system. From improving the ride quality and comfort to enhancing control and stability, these pieces play a critical role.
What are Shocks?
So what exactly are shock absorbers? Simply put, shock absorbers (or shocks) are hydraulic devices designed to absorb and dampen shock impulses caused by the road's surface. In essence, they smooth out the bumps and vibrations, ensuring a stable ride for both the driver and passengers.
When your vehicle moves over a bump or a hole in the road, the suspension system's springs begin to compress and expand. This action may cause the vehicle to bounce. Here’s where the shock absorber steps in – the tool essentially limits the excessive spring motion, maintaining the ride quality and vehicle stability. The shock absorber does this by converting the kinetic energy from the springs into thermal energy, which is then dissipated through hydraulic fluid. This helps keep your car's tires on the ground to maintain good steering control.
When It Is Time To Replace Your Shocks?
New shocks can drastically improve your ride experience, particularly if you regularly drive with heavy loads or on rough or uneven surfaces. It's important to remember that all shocks are not created equal. Shocks focus on heavy-duty use scenarios, which not only help improve the ride quality but also provide superior handling when maneuvering larger tires over obstacles – an appealing factor for off-roaders and truck owners.
The typical lifespan of shock absorbers can vary depending on several factors, including the type of driving (city vs highway), the condition of the roads, the type of shocks, and how often the vehicle carries heavy loads. Generally, automotive experts recommend evaluating your shock absorbers for replacement every 50,000 miles. Recognizing the signs of bad shocks can further ensure that you keep your vehicle in its best condition for the long haul.
Shocks vs Struts: A Deep Dive into Struts
Now that we've taken a thorough look at shocks, it's time to swing our focus to struts. Like shocks, struts are a vital component of a vehicle’s suspension system. The strut is a critical part of the vehicle’s steering system and has a direct impact on a vehicle's road handling capabilities.
What are Struts?
Similar to shocks, a strut is an integral component designed to resist longitudinal compression. This means it resists the vehicle's tendency to move vertically when it hits bumps or dips in the road. The distinction between shocks and struts is that strut assembly is comprised of two parts - a spring and a shock absorber. The spring holds the car up while the shock does what we explained in the previous section - it controls the movement of the spring and the speed at which it compresses and rebounds.
So, why is a sturdy and efficiently working strut so necessary? The answer lies in the design of the suspension system itself. The front suspension often relies exclusively on struts (front struts) although struts can be used on both the front and rear of the vehicle. Struts impact the stability of the entire vehicle - they manage the weight of the vehicle, provide structural support to the suspension, and help control wheel alignment.
When You Need New Struts & How to Replace Them
Like shocks, car mechanics recommend replacing struts every 50,000 miles. Strut replacement can be tricky, especially as it's often difficult to visually identify the signs of wear and tear on these components. As struts play such a crucial role in ensuring the vehicle's smooth operation, replacement is crucial when they start to wear out. Some signs of worn-out struts include:
- Decreased steering response
- Increased vehicle body roll
- Irregular tire wear.
While replacing struts, one might consider using quick struts or complete strut assemblies as these come with all components required, from the coil spring to the strut spacer, which simplifies the replacement process.
Comparing Shocks vs Struts: The Differences Simplified
Having now explored the individual roles and functions of shocks and struts, it's time to place them side by side for a clear-cut comparison. Yes, these two components of the vehicle's suspension system share similarities in functionality, mostly with maintaining ride quality. However, several key differences distinguish these two.
The Primary Difference Between Shocks & Struts
Firstly, while the primary role of both a shock and strut is to provide a controlled, smooth ride, the design is different between the two. A shock is a damping device that controls the movement of the vehicle's springs and suspension. On the other hand, a strut is a structural component of the vehicle's suspension system and impacts vehicle stability and alignment. Typically, struts are found in the front end of vehicles, especially front-wheel-drive cars, where they are integral to the steering mechanism and help to support the vehicle's weight. Shocks can be used in both the front and rear suspension but are more commonly associated with the rear suspension.
However, there are many exceptions to this generalization. Some vehicles use struts on both the front and rear suspension, while others might use shocks on all four corners. The choice between shocks and struts for a specific vehicle's suspension design depends on various factors, including cost, space, weight, and the desired handling characteristics.
- Front-wheel-drive cars: Often have struts on the front because of the need for a compact suspension layout that integrates with the steering.
- Rear-wheel-drive vehicles: May have shocks in the rear and could have either shocks or struts in the front, depending on the specific suspension design chosen by the manufacturer.
Shocks vs Struts: Difference in Design
Secondly, shocks and struts differ in their composition. As mentioned before, a shock is a simpler device than a strut. A shock is merely a component of a strut. It integrates additional suspension parts including a coil spring and spring seats, while also housing the shock absorber within its assembly.
Other Differences Between Shocks and Struts
Lastly, struts bear part of the vehicle's weight, whereas shocks do not. Shocks solely control the speed at which weight is transferred in a car, front to back and side to side, which is why heavy-duty shocks are ideal. Struts, however, influence the alignment, steering, and managing the vehicle's weight.
Therefore, in terms of importance, neither of them outweighs the other. Note, shocks and struts need to be replaced in pairs and you should replace all four at once.
Understanding these differences and how these components work can lead to better maintenance and performance of your vehicle. It also helps to choose the right parts when replacements are necessary, ensuring your vehicle stays in top shape.
Shocks vs Struts: Final Thoughts
Overall, shocks control the reaction of the vehicle's suspension and springs while struts provide structural support for the vehicle's suspension, and both are integral to a comfortable, stable ride. Balancing this delicate blend of ride comfort and driving stability requires high-quality suspension components. Far From Stock excels in offering top-of-the-line, heavy-duty shocks, that outpace OEM parts in supporting heavy loads and improving your truck's ride quality.
Maintaining a healthy suspension system and understanding when to replace your shocks and/or struts will significantly improve your vehicle's performance and longevity. It's advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle's shocks and struts regularly to ensure optimal performance. Understanding these differences in shocks and struts, their functions, advantages, and when to replace them can provide not only a smoother and safer ride but also be cost-effective in the long term.