Are There Differences Between Shocks and Struts, and How Do I Know Which One Needs Attention?
Yes, shocks and struts serve similar purposes in controlling your vehicle's ride quality, but they are not the same component. A shock absorber helps dampen and control unwanted spring movement, which reduces excessive bouncing, improves tire contact with the road, and enhances overall handling. A strut, on the other hand, is a more complex structural part of the suspension system that combines the shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. Struts often play a critical role in maintaining vehicle alignment and supporting the weight of the vehicle.
Most vehicles are designed with either shocks or struts on each wheel, and it's rare for a single wheel to use both. If you're unsure which your fleet vehicles use, don't worry-our technicians at McGovern Municipal HQ will perform a thorough inspection and let you know exactly what components are present and whether they require maintenance, repair, or full replacement for optimal performance and safety.