Difference Between Shocks & Struts

When traveling by land vehicle, it's easy to notice the bumps and dips in the road. The suspension system's use of struts and shocks allow it to travel safely without causing major damage.

Suspension Systems

Suspension systems link the vehicle to the wheels, allowing smoother travel. The system gives a softer feel while taking part in steering and breaking.

Struts

Struts are made up of portions of the car's suspension system. They contain the spring seats, spring coils, strut bearings, shock absorbers and the steering knuckle. Struts are used on front-wheel drive vehicles.

Purpose of Struts

The struts support your vehicle during transportation, allowing it to conform to the roads. When the car bounces or moves, the strut helps the spring compress and recoil.

Shocks

The shocks are meant to absorb the impacts of car movement during travel. They are what help your car recoil back to position after hitting a bump or dip.

Purpose of Shocks

Shocks are a part of the vehicle's suspension system that improves ride quality by dealing with the disturbances of the road. Your shocks absorb the impact of vehicle movement and allow it to return to its operating position. Without this capability, the vehicle would have a stiff feel during travel.

References

• Information about Suspension Systems
• Information about Struts
• Shock Absorbers on Encyclopedia.com