Shocks and Struts London Ontario
Shocks and struts, also referred to as shock absorbers or dampeners, perform a similar basic job: to dampen the movement of the suspension, either caused by the springs in the suspension, or from rough road conditions.
A worn shock or strut does more than just give you an uncomfortable ride – if the shock or strut has lost it’s ability to dampen the suspension, tires will start wearing unevenly.
Stopping distances are also increased as the uncontrolled suspension will not be able to keep the tires firmly in contact with the road surface. Other components of the suspension system will be subjected to increased wear as well.
Shocks and struts repair
Like anything else, shocks & struts don’t last forever. They can wear out or fail in different ways. Shocks and struts can begin to lose their ability to properly dampen the suspension at 80,000 to 100,000 kms of use, and in most cases the wear occurs gradually and may not be noticed by the driver.
Common failures include the seal around the shaft – once it starts to leak, the oil in the shock or strut is lost, and so is its ability to dampen the suspension.
Another failure can be internal. A valve or seal can wear out, preventing the oil from being controlled, resulting in loss of dampening.
Routine maintenance inspections when servicing your vehicle is the best way to spot failing shocks or struts, allowing them to be replaced before they can wear tires, other components or cause safety issues.
How do shocks & struts work?
Struts are an evolution of the shock absorber. While a shock is bolted into the suspension simply to control movement of the suspension. A strut is a shock absorber mounted in a heavily built assembly that in most cases, not only forms an integral part of the suspension but also holds a coil spring that supports the weight of one corner of the vehicle.
Shocks and struts are oil filled, and that oil is forced thru a piston inside the shock whenever the suspension moves. Valves in the piston or shock body regulate the flow of oil, slowing down and controlling (or dampening) the suspension movement.
London’s Shocks & Struts Repair Shop
Speak to a mechanic about shocks and struts inspection and installation in London Ontario today!