Why does a strut fail

This page is for personal, non-commercial use. The strut assembly for a car, truck or SUV is a critical member for the suspension family that impacts the overall drivability of the vehicle. While driving any vehicle, hitting bumps and dips along the way is normal and are absorbed by several suspension components to produce a smooth ride. Within the inner suspension assembly on all four wheels is the strut assembly, which is attached to the vehicle chassis and wheel assembly in the front and back of the vehicle.

When the strut assembly begins to show signs of wear and tear or fails completely, it not only impacts vehicle comfort, but can lead to additional damage to other suspension components and potentially unsafe driving conditions. The struts on a vehicle have a huge impact on other components on your car.

Thus, when you experience any of the symptoms or warning signs noted below, it's critical to take proactive measures to have them inspected or replace the failing strut assembly as soon as possible.

Here are some common signs to watch for if you suspect your strut assembly may be failing. The struts are solid units that allow the chassis, wheel assembly and body to move cohesively when a bump is hit while driving. When the strut begins to wear out, it will produce a knocking or clunking sound that can be very noticeable. The strut is filled with an inner shock, bushings, and supporting components that eventually wear out over time.

When compressed, the knocking sound that is often heard is caused by the strut "bottoming out" or metal-to-metal contact. If you notice a knocking or clunking sound coming from an area near the front or rear tires, it's most likely due to worn out or broken struts. Contact a local ASE Certified mechanic as soon as possible to correctly diagnose and replace the struts if needed.

Similar in cause to the above symptom, a rough or bumpy ride can also be an indicator of worn out or broken struts. It can also be a symptom of other parts of the strut assembly such as bushings, shocks or mounting hardware associated with the struts.

Either way, when the strut is worn out or broken, one of the first things you'll notice is a much rougher ride. In fact, you'll most likely feel every bump and crack in the road when your struts have failed completely. If your overall ride is becoming bumpy or rough, contact YourMechanic so they can road test, diagnose, and replace the strut assembly if needed. Like most suspension jobs, it's important to replace both sides of the vehicle at the same time. You don't have to replace front and rear at the same time, but make sure the same axle is replaced together.

Another symptom of a bad strut assembly is a floating front end, or when it pulls to one side. I ran over a lifted pothole which impacted my driver front tire area. When I turn left now a vibrating sound happens when I reverse as well. Could this be the issue? I have a Dodge 2WD. When I am driving highway and go over any dips it sways in rear. I have put new tires, ball joints, steering rod ends, shocks and struts. I recently bought a travel trailer with sway bar. What should I try next?

Great post and thanks for sharing this educative and informative article with us. Keep up the good job. I hope to set this leak sealed as I cannot afford a whole new strut. What do you think? I have a squeaky sound coming from drivers side when i go over bumps and turn the wheel..

My bmw f10 steering wheel is not going back to centre if I turn. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Silverdale, WA , and the surrounding area. This also negatively affects your ability to stay in control of your vehicle. Wear on other parts: Driving with bad struts accelerates the wear on tires, as well as other components of the suspension system, such as the springs.

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