The Role of Shocks and Struts
Suspension Repair in Oakboro, NC
Your Vehicle's Suspension
Your automobile utilizes a suspension system for a variety of purposes. This complex, interworking collection of components supports the weight of the auto body, allows your vehicle to roll, facilitates driver handling, and provides a comforting buffer between the bumps in the road and your riding experience. The ASE-certified technicians at Frog Pond Performance in Oakboro, North Carolina, can assist you with all makes and models, and you can feel confident placing your trust in us as a NAPA Gold Certified repair shop. Let our team of professionals take care of all suspension parts, including the shocks and struts.
More about Shocks and Struts
Although you may hear some motorists use the terms interchangeably, shock absorbers and struts are a bit different. Both are key components of the suspension and improve your ride. A shock absorber is true to its name. It expands and contracts linearly to lessen the impact of inclusions on the road surface. Your car also needs springs to work alongside the shock absorbers. A strut integrates the shock absorber and spring, allowing a single component to perform the dual duties of calming the ride while providing structural support. Each wheel has either a shock absorber or strut to ensure control and structural integrity. Some automobiles have the same component on every wheel, while others have one type on the front and another on the back.
What Can Go Wrong
Even though shocks and struts are designed to take a beating, they can wear out or break, making replacement necessary. General wear over time causes these suspension parts to weaken. They simply don't work as well as they used to. Also, rust or other metal weakening from salt or chemical exposure can damage the metal parts, causing them to eventually snap. Wear is also hastened by habitually driving over rough areas, particularly if you don't slow down. Drivers who repeatedly take speed bumps without reducing their rate of motion first are likely to face suspension repair sooner than more cautious motorists. An extreme jolt can also damage or break a shock or strut. You may have heard someone refer to a shock absorber as "bottoming out." This means they hit a major hole, ditch, curb, or other obstacle at speed, causing the shock to extend beyond its intended range of motion. Overloading your vehicle can also damage or break suspension components. The automaker issues a gross weight limit for each model they manufacture. Exceeding that approved rating can create problems with handling, braking, and maintaining a healthy suspension. Regardless of the underlying cause or problem, count on Frog Pond Performance for suspension repair.