Common Shock /struts Absorber Questions

12. Why do I need to replace worn shocks or struts?

Does the Shock absorber need to be replaced with both? Does Shock absorber damage require immediate replacement?  

The Shock Absorber tends to age and harden over time, leading to damage. The average car has two Shock absorbers. Do you need to replace both of them if one breaks? In fact, only one Shock absorber is damaged and can be replaced separately, but it is better to replace both when replacing them. That’s because while the Shock absorber isn’t damaged, it can wear and tear over time. Changing just one Shock absorber can lead to uneven support on both sides of the Shock absorber, affecting its original performance.

If the shock absorber is broken, do you need to replace it immediately?

First, when the Shock absorber is damaged, the Shock absorber will make a strange noise when it is working, and the car’s direction may be slightly deflected, making it difficult and ineffective to return to normal. At the same time, the Shock absorber loses its basic cushioning effect, transferring the absorbed Shock and Shock from the frame to the driver’s cab as it works, and the steering wheel makes a noticeable noise when it is moved. All told, the impact of Shock absorber damage is significant and should be replaced in a timely manner.

Shock absorber assembly is distinguished from shock absorber

1. Different constituent structures

The shock absorber is only part of the shock absorber assembly; The shock absorber assembly is composed of shock absorber, lower spring pad, dust jacket, spring, shock absorber pad, upper spring pad, spring seat, bearing, top glue and nut.

2. Different difficulty of replacement

The replacement of independent shock absorbers is difficult to operate, requiring professional equipment and technicians, and the risk factor is large; Replacing the shock absorber assembly is a simple matter of turning a few screws.

3. Price difference

It is expensive to replace each part of shock absorber set separately. The shock absorber assembly, which contains all parts of the shock absorber system, is cheaper than replacing all parts of the shock absorber.

4. Different functions

A separate shock absorber serves only as a shock absorber; The shock absorber assembly also plays the role of suspension pillar in the suspension system.

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Therefore, it is recommended to replace the shock absorber assembly directly, and the replacement of the shock absorber assembly is recommended to replace in pairs, in order to prevent the car from causing instability, serious words will also affect driving safety.

Should You Get an Alignment After Getting New Shocks and Struts? 
The short answer is—it depends on the type of suspension your car has. If the tires are wearing evenly and there is no steering pull or wander, an alignment isn’t typically necessary. On some vehicles, the installation of new shocks and struts may affect your car’s wheel alignment.However, there are some instances where alignment is not required after replacing the struts or shocks. 

There are many different suspension designs in use today. Most modern cars use either a MacPherson strut or a modified strut front suspension (some also have struts in the rear). 

Consulting the factory repair information for your application is the best way to determine whether your car needs an alignment after shock/strut replacement. You can also contact your local dealership service department for the answer.  
There’s one more thing that you should keep in mind—any suspension modification will automatically require a subsequent alignment to be performed. For example, replacing coil springs on a strut affects ride height, which has a direct effect on the camber angle.  

If you’re simply reusing the old coil springs, this shouldn’t be a problem. But if you are replacing it with a different spring that has a longer or shorter coil, a wheel alignment would be imperative. 

To sum it up, here are the answers to the question—do you need an alignment after replacing shocks and struts? 

Yes, if the vehicle manufacturer recommends an alignment after replacement.  
Yes, if you did any suspension modifications that do not follow manufacturer recommendations. 
Yes, if you are replacing your tires at the same time. 
If you’re still unsure, you can always err on the side of caution and take your vehicle to a professional so they can check whether an alignment is required.