Your Car’s Shock Absorbers and Struts: What You Need to Know

Maximizing the Life of Your Car’s Shock Absorbers and Struts: Dos and Don’ts

Here in Dauphin County, we recognize the value of our local heroes and the role they play in keeping our community running smoothly. For example, two officers in Harrisburg’s neighboring township of Swatara were just honored with awards for their life-saving efforts. And though your car or truck’s shock absorbers and struts may not save lives, they are vital parts of your vehicles suspension system that keeps your car running smoothly. Because they make sure your ride is smooth and controlled by absorbing road irregularities and maintaining tire contact with the road.

So, the experts at Meineke in Harrisburg thought, just like our police officers, your shock absorbers and struts deserved a little honor of their own. And you can do that by providing them with the proper maintenance that will enhance your vehicle’s performance and extend its lifespan. So, here’s a guide on what to do and what not to do to keep your car’s shock absorbers and struts in optimal condition.

Dos

1. Regular Inspections:

   • Visual Check: Periodically inspect the shocks and struts for leaks, dents, or other damage. And look for oily residue on the shock absorbers. Because, this could indicate a leak.
   • Professional Inspection: Have the professional mechanics at Meineke in Harrisburg inspect the suspension system during routine maintenance checks. Because they can identify issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

2. Proper Tire Maintenance:

   • Tire Pressure: Maintain the correct tire pressure as per your vehicle’s specifications. Because, underinflated or overinflated tires can cause uneven wear and strain on the suspension.
   • Alignment and Balancing: Ensure your tires are properly aligned and balanced. Because misalignment can cause uneven wear on your shocks and struts, leading to premature failure.

3. Drive Sensibly:

   • Avoid Potholes and Rough Roads: Whenever possible, avoid driving over potholes, speed bumps, and rough terrains. Because, these can cause significant damage to your shocks and struts.
   • Moderate Speed: Drive at moderate speeds, especially on uneven roads. Because, high-speed impacts can exert excessive force on the suspension system.

4. Load Management:

   • Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed your vehicle’s load capacity. Because overloading can put undue stress on the shocks and struts. And this can cause them to wear out faster.
   • Even Distribution: Distribute weight evenly when carrying heavy loads. Because, uneven weight distribution can affect the handling and increase wear on specific parts of the suspension.

5. Regular Fluid Checks:

   • Brake Fluid and Hydraulic Oil: Ensure that brake fluid and hydraulic oil levels are maintained as per manufacturer recommendations. Because these fluids play a crucial role in the functioning of the suspension system.

Don’ts

1. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs:

   • Unusual Noises: Don’t ignore clunking, knocking, or squeaking noises coming from the suspension. Because these could be a sign of worn-out shocks or struts.
   • Poor Handling: If you notice excessive bouncing, swaying, or nose-diving when braking, have your suspension system checked immediately.

2. Don’t Delay Replacements:

   • Old Shocks and Struts: Don’t delay replacing worn-out shocks and struts. Because, using them beyond their lifespan can lead to poor vehicle handling and increased wear on other suspension components.
   • Single Unit Replacement: Avoid replacing just one shock or strut. Instead, replace them in pairs (either both fronts or both rears) to ensure balanced performance.

3. Don’t Do DIY Repairs Without Knowledge:

   • Inadequate Expertise: Don’t attempt to repair or replace shocks and struts if you lack the necessary expertise and tools. Because, incorrect installation can lead to serious safety issues. Instead, have the ASE certified experts at Meineke help ensure you are safe on the road.

4. Don’t Use Low-Quality Parts:

   • Cheap Components: Avoid using low-quality or counterfeit parts for replacements. Instead, invest in high-quality, manufacturer-recommended parts to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
   • Incompatible Parts: Ensure the replacement parts are compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Because incompatible parts can cause more harm than good. And, the experts at Meineke are here to help ensure you have the right part for the right vehicle.

5. Don’t Skip Routine Maintenance:

   • Neglecting Service Schedules: Don’t skip routine maintenance checks as specified by your vehicle manufacturer. Because, regular servicing can help identify and fix minor issues before they become expensive ones.

You and Meineke are the Perfect Team to Keep Your Struts and Shock Absorbers Working at Their Best

To keep your car’s shock absorbers and struts working at their best, it’s essential to follow these few simple do’s and don’ts. Because, by following these simple tips, you can help extend the life of your car’s shock absorbers and struts and ensure a smooth and safe ride. And Meineke on Paxton Street in Harrisburg is always here to be your partner in car care.

If the Meineke on Paxton Street in Harrisburg is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 14 car repair centers is South Central Pennsylvania: