Automobiles are made up of so many different parts that in can be hard to keep track of exactly what is where and what all the parts do. Even though it isn’t necessary to know how to take apart your car and put it back together again, it can still be rather helpful to have some knowledge regarding your car, its various parts, and what these parts general functions include. For example, shocks and struts are located near the wheels of your vehicle and are relatively easy to maintain, as a part of the vehicle’s suspension system.

The term “shocks” is actually short for the shock absorbers on an automobile. The purpose of shocks is to minimize the wear and tear on a vehicle while providing a smooth ride for the automobile’s passengers. Through the use of hydraulics, they help absorb the “shock” felt as the vehicle drives on a rough road or over a large bump. Shocks and struts keep passengers from flying around the car or hitting their heads on the roof. Without them, automobiles would be awfully uncomfortable to ride in, since every bump along the way would easily be felt by those inside the vehicle. Because of this, shocks that are new or in good quality condition make for the smoothest ride.

When you notice your vehicle seems to be hitting every rough spot or bump in the road, this may mean that you automobile is in need of new shocks. The less smooth the ride, the more likely it is that the shocks and struts need replacing. While there is no set interval of how often these should be replaced, shocks typically last about 30,000-40,000 miles or get replaced after 50,000 miles of use. If you are unsure of the exact mileage, try looking for oil leaks or other fluid leaks around the area of the shocks. If the area is at all damaged, this could mean the shocks need to be replaced as well. Other contributing factors to the wear-and-tear of shocks include the types of roads you drive on regularly or the kind of climate and weather conditions in which you live. Eventually, the shocks on your vehicle will need to be replaced at some point, so keep a close eye on your vehicle to determine when that time comes.

As with any car related maintenance, it is better to be safe than sorry. Preventative maintenance is often a practice that can save you incredible amounts of money over time. Shocks and struts are no different than any other part of a car in terms of the maintenance they need. As they are such important parts of the car, the maintenance on these parts is crucial.

Play it smart and make sure you stay on top of the maintenance on all parts of your car. Pay special attention to your shocks and struts! These can often make or break the operation of your vehicle. What are you waiting for? Get out there and get those shocks and struts inspected!

Author Bio: Lexus Long Island specializes in new and used Lexus car sales, certified Lexus service/parts and useful information regarding Lexus vehicles. Lexus of Southampton is located in Long Island, New York.

Category: Automotive
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