Shocks and struts are commonly mistaken as interchangeable terms. Shocks are a part of your automobile's suspension and struts are a part of the suspension's assembly. Depending on what type of vehicle you have, it is possible your vehicle doesn't even have both struts and shocks. While both parts are necessary to maintain a smooth ride, they certainly aren't interchangeable. Furthermore, they are located in different places as shocks are always on the rear of your car and struts are on the front.

Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers keep the car from bouncing and make it easier to manage on the highway. When you hit an obstacle in the road, you will know whether you need shocks or not because of the bouncing inside of the vehicle. The springs in the suspension absorb the road shock, but the absorber controls the amount of bouncing when the springs recover.

Struts

Struts are mounted to the vehicle's chassis as part of its suspension system structure. Struts are part of the steering system and have an effect on its alignment angles where the caster and camber can usually be adjusted on the strut. A coil spring is inside working as a swivel point of the steering system. The height of the vehicle is governed by the spring.

When to Replace the Shocks and Struts?

Your vehicle will do a fairly good job of telling you when the shocks or struts need replaced. For example, your vehicle may sway or bounce when you go to turn or change lanes. Your tires may even be wearing unevenly.

The car might dive when brakes are applied, or the rear end might squat when you accelerate. If you notice any fluid leaking or if the mounts for the shocks or struts look damaged/dented, it is probably time to have an auto mechanic take a look at your shocks and struts.

As far as cost is concerned, shocks are less expensive than struts. However, installation is more expensive for struts. After 25,000 to 35,000 miles, the shocks could need replacement. However, you can go as many as 75,000 miles, but the struts or shocks should be replaced in pairs.

When it comes to the safety features of your vehicle, you should try to purchase high-quality products. As quoted by Kurt Vonnegut, you get what you pay for, and it is true for these parts. Shocks and struts are one part of the vehicle you will notice the improvement immediately.