Regarding your car, struts are the unsung heroes of the suspension system. They keep you safe by supporting the weight of your vehicle and giving you a smooth ride, so it’s essential to know when they may be failing and need replacement before they lead to more significant problems, like an accident or severe wear and tear on other parts of your car. Modern cars use shocks, struts, or a combination of the two, which perform the same function. Here are some warning signs that your car’s struts may fail, along with tips on what to do about it.
1) Unusual Sounds
If you hear unusual squeaking sounds from your car, it could be a sign that your struts are failing. The struts are responsible for dampening the shocks from bumps in the road, so if they’re not working correctly, you’ll hear it. If you’re not sure whether the noise is coming from your struts or something else, have a mechanic take a listen.
2) Pulling to One Side While Driving
If you notice your car pulling to one side while driving, it could be a sign that your struts are failing. This is because the struts help keep the car’s suspension system in alignment and stabilize the vehicle’s movement. If they’re not working correctly, it can cause the car to pull to one side.
3) Difficulty in Turning When the Steering Wheel is Released
If your car is having difficulty turning, especially when you release the steering wheel, it could be a sign that your struts are failing. The struts help support the weight of the vehicle and keep it stable, so if they’re not working correctly, turning can be difficult. Additionally, you may notice that your car is bouncing more than usual or that the ride is rougher than it used to be. These are signs that your struts are not absorbing shocks as they should be.
4) Diving and Squatting
If your vehicle’s front end dives excessively during braking, or if the rear end of the car squats excessively during acceleration, your struts may be wearing out. While you may be tempted to ignore this problem, it’s best not to take your car to a mechanic and have them check things out.
5) Vehicle is Not Stable at Highway Speeds
One of the first signs that your car’s struts are failing is when your car feels unstable at highway speeds. This is usually caused by a problem with the strut mount or bushing. If you notice this, it’s essential to get your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Your car’s struts perform the same role as shock absorbers but with additional features. Struts help keep your car’s tires in contact with the road, and without them, your vehicle would not be safe to drive, especially at highway speeds. If you notice any signs of failing struts, see your trusted mechanic get them replaced.
