Over time, your shock absorbers and strut assemblies will eventually wear out due to age, use, and exposure to environmental elements. It’s important to have your suspension components inspected and replaced at the recommended service intervals, as shocks and struts can affect not only how your vehicle handles, but also how it stops. With the right shocks and struts for most vehicles, O’Reilly Auto Parts can help you find the replacement parts and tools you need for your next suspension system repair.
Shocks & StrutsShop shocks, struts, and other suspension parts for your vehicle at your local O'Reilly Auto Parts. Find A Store Near You |
Shocks
Struts
Suspension Kits
Shock & Strut Mounts
Shock & Strut Conversion Kits
MasterPro Strut Assemblies
Monroe Shocks & Struts
Rancho
KYB
Bilstein
The shock absorbers on your vehicle dampen and absorb road conditions by controlling suspension motion while driving. Struts are similar to shock absorbers internally, but also provide structural support for your vehicle’s suspension and wheel alignment. Both help to provide a smoother and more comfortable drive, and ensure your vehicle handles as safely as possible.
How to Replace Rear Shocks
Our O’Reilly parts professionals can help you learn how to replace the shocks and struts on your vehicle with detailed step-by-step instructions. Watch our how-to video on servicing your suspension system, and keep your vehicle driving at its best. More videos are available for specific year, make, and model combinations in our How-To Hub.
What are Symptoms of a Bad Shock Absorber?
Some of the most common symptoms of bad shock absorbers are:
- • Excessive bouncing before stabilization when driving on uneven surfaces
- • Front end dipping when braking
- • Rear end squatting during acceleration
- • Fluid or gas leaking from the shock
What are Symptoms of a Bad Strut?
Some symptoms of a bad strut are:
- • Loss of stability, including rolling or swaying while cornering
- • Less effective steering, or wheel alignment issues
- • Metal knocking sounds from the front or rear wheels
- • Bottoming out when driving over bumps or uneven roads
What is the Difference Between Shocks and Struts?
The main difference between shocks and struts is that struts provide structural support for your vehicle. These assemblies consist of a strut cartridge and spring as a unit, whereas a vehicle with a shock-based suspension system will have a shock absorber and a separate coil or leaf spring. If your vehicle has shocks instead of struts, the shock absorbers will be separate from the spring and non-weight bearing, as the independent spring will support your vehicle’s weight, and the shock will only dampen suspension movement. The struts also support side suspension load, which means worn struts can affect your vehicle’s steering, braking control, and wheel alignment.