As shocks and bushings wear, they lose their ability to properly support the strut. The result is that the strut can bottom out. When the strut bottoms out, the metal-to-metal contact can cause a knocking sound that emanates from the front or rear wheels. Tire cupping, or scalloping, can be another cause of suspension-related noise. When shock absorbers go bad and cause the tire to recoil faster, there can be patterns of wear that alternate like a series of peaks and valleys.
These variations in tire tread lead to a bouncing noise that can be detected during a test drive. Even under normal conditions on a smooth road, shocks stroke an average of 1, times for every mile traveled. This is why shock and strut wear is common. If your tires show unusual wear patterns it may be time to replace your shocks and struts.
Suspension damage can cause cupping in tires, which is when cups or scalloped dips develop around the edge of the tread. Depending on vehicle and driving conditions, many cars require shock and strut replacements sometime after the fifty thousand mile marker. Instead of waiting to notice problems, you might consider having your suspension checked once you reach the fifty thousand mile mark, or every fifty thousand miles on most vehicles. Because everything in the car is connected, a problem with the suspension can lead to other problems.
Suspension problems can also be particularly rough on tires, which can become dangerous and expensive to replace. Patrick St. These worn shock symptoms won't appear overnight. Shocks wear out over time, making it difficult to determine when they need to be replaced.
Think of your car's shocks like a pair of tennis shoes. Since it takes your shoes such a long time to wear down, you may not remember how they originally performed and supported your feet until you get new shoes! If you notice one of these signs, spring into action for your own safety and start with a complete vehicle inspection at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
During an inspection, technicians will check for any suspension-related issues, including damaged shocks or struts, broken mounts or bushings, and vehicle swaying or bouncing. Blog Categories Blog Home. Up Next. Getting ready to hitch up? Read on for more about alignment settings.
Find Store. Find a Different Location Find a Store. How does your vehicle feel and respond? Normal Driving: Does your vehicle still feel and sound like a new car? Worn shocks allow additional movement, this means more vibrations and more noise when driving at normal speeds. Stopping: How does your vehicle respond when stopping?
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