BAD STRUT SYMPTOMS
The strut assembly is a part of a ground-based vehicle that is fundamentally important to keep the vehicle drivable. Whether it is a truck or an SUV, a convertible, or a minivan, having a functioning strut assembly is how your vehicle can stay safe and comfortable on the road.
When driving, chances are you’re going to run into some potholes, bumps, and uneven surfaces. These bumps are absorbed by the suspension components. If the car’s suspension components are failing to work, you’re in for a rough, and potentially even risky, ride.
While the suspension assembly consists of several different components, the ones we’re going to be talking about today are the strut assembly. The strut assembly is made up of two main components: the coil spring, and the shock absorber. These components absorb bumps, stabilize the vehicle, and mitigate vibrations that would make the drive a lot less pleasant.
These components are not immune to being damaged or suffering wear and tear. When this happens, it makes being in the car a lot more bumpy and stressful, and also can lead to further decline with the suspension components, and create risky driving conditions.
The decline of your struts is something that can happen quickly, or over an extended period. It is important not to let the problem worsen because it can pose a serious long-term risk to you and your vehicle. Being proactive is key when addressing issues with your strut assembly, so if you are noticing some indicators that your strut assembly may be failing, you must take action.
If you’re unfamiliar with the signs to be on the lookout for, fear not. We’ve got you covered with a list of some of the biggest red flags and warning signs to pay attention to below.
Your Car Ride is a Bumpy Experience
This is the most obvious warning sign that your strut assembly is not doing so well. If you’re driving, and every bump feels like a major collision, and it is harder to stabilize following speed bumps or potholes, chances are the strut assembly can be to blame. This will be one of the first things you’ll take note of when your strut assembly is broken or is failing. If your strut assembly is fully finished, you’ll feel every change in texture you drive over, making for an extremely arduous trip. Several different components within the strut assembly can cause this problem, and the solution is an inspection and fix from Top Notch Automotive.
Irregular Tread Wear
Tires are what keeps your car moving, and they can also help indicate the condition of the strut assembly. Tires absorb some of the shocks of the car as well, and you can tell by looking at the wear and tear of the tire if the strut assembly is no longer functioning as it should be. The tires will be more worn if the strut assembly isn’t working properly, and the wear will be uneven. Keep your eyes on the condition of your tires to be sure your car is absorbing bumps well, and if it isn’t Top Notch Automotive is here to help.
Noises When Going Over Uneven Surfaces
Struts keep several different components of the car moving stably when the vehicle goes over an uneven surface. If the strut isn’t working as it is supposed to, you’ll know due to the loud noises that your car will be making. You’ll hear banging or knocking noises that will be hard to miss. These noises will be from your car struggling to absorb the shock that it is taking. If the strut’s components have worn down, you’ll hear a loud sound because the strut that should be supporting parts of the vehicle is no longer effective. If you hear this noise, it could spell trouble, so get in touch with Top Notch Automotive.
Unstable Front End
This can be caused by other problems with your vehicle, but most commonly, if the front end of your car feels unstable, it is caused by a strut assembly that is past its prime. This can feel like the front part of your car is floating, or moving to one side. This is dangerous because drivers will try and correct, and could lead to accidents. Top Notch Automotive can help in this circumstance, so don’t hesitate to take action.
Conclusion
In these circumstances, taking action is of the utmost importance. Not only is a faulty strut assembly a problem for that specific area of your car, but the issue can also spread. As mentioned, it can lead to issues with your tires due to the car not being able to absorb shock as it is supposed to. It can also put stress on your car’s engine, and lead to damage that will be extremely trying to fix. Same with the transmission. If your car’s transmission and engine are damaged, it can be expensive and difficult to get your vehicle taken care of.
That’s why being proactive is important. The best way to be proactive is to contact Top Notch Automotive if you have any concerns. With vehicle inspections and repairs, Top Notch Automotive has the right team and equipment to handle any issues with your strut assembly and anything else you need repaired on your car or truck.
Reach out to Top Notch Automotive at (815) 526–3626 to set up an appointment today.
