What's the Difference Between Shocks & Struts

As Subaru owners, it's crucial to grasp the various components that comprise your Subaru's suspension system. Two components that often cause confusion are shocks and struts. While they both play vital roles in ensuring a smooth and secure ride, they are distinct. In this blog post, we will extensively discuss and differentiate the two, empowering you to make informed decisions concerning your Subaru's maintenance.

Shocks: Shocks, or shock absorbers, play a critical role in a Subaru's suspension system. Their main function is to dampen the up and down motion of a Subaru's spring. When a Subaru drives over an obstacle, the spring compresses and absorbs the shock, then the shock absorber dampens the spring's rebound. Shocks also help to prevent a Subaru from bouncing excessively and provide better control while driving. Shocks are generally less expensive than struts and can be easily replaced. However, with that being said, unless you are a well-trained mechanic, you should take your Subaru into the mechanic or a dealership to have them change your shocks.

Struts: Struts are a more complex suspension component that performs the same function as a shock absorber but have additional functions such as supporting the weight of the Subaru and steering. Struts act as a structural part of the suspension system in some Subarus, replacing upper control arms, upper ball joints, and some steering components. Struts, unlike shocks, need to be replaced more often and can be more expensive due to their added components and complexity. Again, this is best left to a professional who can take care of everything in your Subaru and do the job right the first time.

Installation Differences: The difference in installation is another major factor to consider when comparing shocks and struts. A simple shock absorber replacement can be done quickly and cheaply, while strut replacements require additional work and an alignment, which can add to the cost. Some Subarus do specify struts in place of shocks, and vice versa, so it's important to make sure your mechanic is following the correct specifications. Although, if you take your Subaru into a dealership, you aren't going to run into this issue as they will know everything about shocks and struts.

Handling differences: Shocks and struts also handle driving differently. As we mentioned earlier, struts are usually part of the suspension system, which makes the steering more responsive. Subarus equipped with struts can handle challenging road surfaces better than those equipped with shocks and are generally better for demanding driving conditions such as off-road driving. Shocks, on the other hand, are perfect for daily driving on paved roads because of their smooth ride and stability.

Signs of Wear: It's important to know the warning signs of worn-out shocks and struts to potentially avoid expensive repairs or accidents. Signs that your shocks or struts need to be replaced include excessive bouncing, difficulty steering, a bumpy ride, and uneven tire wear. If you experience any of these, drive to the nearest mechanic and have them check your suspension system. If something feels off, take your Subaru to a mechanic or the dealership right away. They can inspect it all and fix whatever needs to be fixed and get you on the road right away.

When do Shocks Need Replacing: As a Subaru owner, you rely on your shocks to help provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Some common signs include excessive bouncing, vibrations, or noise while driving. You may also notice uneven tire wear or a loss of control when turning or braking. To stay safe and maintain optimal performance, it's important to have your shocks checked regularly and replaced as needed. The best piece of advice is to listen to your Subaru. If something feels off, then take it into a dealership or certified mechanic who can determine what's going on and get you back on the road.

When do Struts Need Replacing: Do you know when it's time to replace the struts on your Subaru? These important components of your suspension system are responsible for keeping your Subaru stable and absorbing shocks as you drive. Over time, struts can become worn out or damaged and may need to be replaced. Signs indicating that it's time to replace your struts may include uneven tire wear, a bumpy ride, or difficulty steering. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to have your struts inspected by a skilled mechanic. Maintaining regular maintenance of your Subaru will ensure its long-term safety and reliability. When it comes to a Subaru's suspension system, understanding the distinctions between shocks and struts is vital for Subaru owners.

While they both dampen the motion of a Subaru's spring, struts have added functions such as supporting the weight of the Subaru and steering. While shocks provide a smooth ride and stability, struts can handle challenging roads and off-road conditions better. It's important to know the warning signs of worn-out shocks and struts to prevent expensive repairs or accidents. If not, you risk wasting time and money in the long run.

If you're looking for a top-notch ride that can handle any adventure, chances are you drive a Subaru. However, even the most reliable cars need occasional maintenance, particularly when it comes to their shocks and struts. These essential parts absorb shock and ensure a comfortable ride, so it's crucial to ensure their good condition. 

Thankfully, you can rely on the experts at Granite Subaru to maintain your vehicle and ensure optimal functionality of your shocks and struts. Whether you're conquering rough terrain or simply cruising around town, a visit to Granite Subaru will ensure a hassle-free experience on the road. We can also scrutinize everything else and guarantee that your Subaru is 100% ready for the road and off-roading. Remember, a tad of upkeep can guarantee that you relish your Subaru for a long time! Here at Granite Subaru, we can look over your Subaru, and then you'll have peace of mind when getting back behind the wheel.