Top 8 Symptoms of Bad Struts You Should Never Ignore!

Summary

This video explains the importance of struts in a vehicle's suspension system and how they contribute to vehicle safety and performance. It highlights the gradual wear of struts and outlines key signs that they may need replacing, such as nose dive during braking, bouncy rides, uneven tire wear, and unusual noises. Ignoring worn struts can lead to increased stopping distances, tire damage, and dangerous handling. The video emphasizes the significance of timely maintenance and encourages viewers to stay proactive in caring for their vehicle’s suspension system.

Takeaways

• 😀 Struts are a critical component of your vehicle's suspension system, providing support and stabilizing the vehicle during driving, braking, and turning.
• 😀 Worn struts can cause gradual issues that affect vehicle safety and performance, making it important to recognize the signs early.
• 😀 Nose dive during braking is a key sign of worn struts, increasing stopping distance and making it harder to control the vehicle in emergencies.
• 😀 A bouncy ride after hitting bumps indicates worn struts, as the suspension should absorb the impact and settle quickly.
• 😀 Excessive vehicle roll during cornering can be a sign that your struts aren’t controlling weight transfer effectively, affecting handling and comfort.
• 😀 Uneven tire wear, such as cupping or scalloping, may occur when struts are worn, creating safety risks and leading to the need for tire replacements.
• 😀 Rear squat during acceleration happens when struts can't properly stabilize the rear suspension, leading to performance issues and passenger discomfort.
• 😀 Vibration in the steering wheel on smooth roads may indicate worn struts or steering stabilizers, and it’s a red flag that should be investigated.
• 😀 Clunking or knocking sounds while driving over bumps often signal that struts are bottoming out due to wear, or that mounting components are damaged.
• 😀 Leaking fluid from your struts is a clear indication of damage, as it means the seals are compromised and the suspension system can’t function properly.
• 😀 Ignoring worn struts can lead to serious safety risks, including increased stopping distances, tire damage, and dangerous handling during braking, cornering, or acceleration.

Q & A

What is the role of struts in a vehicle's suspension system?

Struts provide structural support for the vehicle and help stabilize it during driving, braking, and turning. They absorb bumps and control suspension movement, effectively combining the functions of a shock absorber and a spring in one unit.

How do struts affect the smoothness of a vehicle's ride?

Struts help keep the ride smooth by absorbing road impacts and controlling suspension movement. If they are in good condition, they ensure that your vehicle remains stable and comfortable, even on rough roads.

What happens when struts start to wear out?

When struts wear out, they lose their ability to properly absorb bumps, leading to a rougher ride. Additionally, they may cause issues like increased stopping distance, uneven tire wear, and difficulty in steering and handling the vehicle.

What is 'nose dive,' and why is it dangerous?

Nose dive is when the front end of the car dips toward the ground during braking. This can be dangerous because it increases stopping distance, which can be critical in emergency situations where quick stopping is necessary.

What does a bouncy ride indicate about the struts?

A bouncy ride, where the car seems to bounce excessively after hitting a bump, suggests that the struts are no longer absorbing impacts effectively. This can lead to discomfort and instability while driving.

How do worn struts affect vehicle handling while cornering?

Worn struts can cause the vehicle to sway or roll excessively when cornering, which reduces stability and makes the car harder to steer safely through turns. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially in tight corners or high-speed turns.

What is the significance of uneven tire wear related to struts?

Uneven tire wear, such as cupping or scalloping, can occur when struts are worn. This happens because the vehicle bounces excessively, reducing tire contact with the road. This not only wears out your tires prematurely but can also pose a safety risk by reducing traction.

What does rear squat during acceleration indicate?

Rear squat during acceleration is when the back end of the car dips down as you accelerate. This can occur when struts are worn and can affect the vehicle's performance, making it uncomfortable for passengers, especially those prone to motion sickness.

What causes steering wheel vibrations, and when should they be a concern?

Steering wheel vibrations that occur on smooth roads, not just bumpy ones, can indicate worn struts or issues with the steering stabilizer. This is a red flag and should prompt a closer inspection of your suspension system.

How do fluid leaks affect struts, and what should you do if you notice one?

Fluid leaks from struts can occur when the seals are damaged, causing hydraulic fluid to leak out. Since struts rely on this fluid to function properly, a leak means the suspension won't work as it should. If you notice a leak, it's time to replace the struts.

What are the dangers of ignoring worn struts?

Ignoring worn struts can lead to several serious issues, including increased stopping distance, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. This makes the vehicle harder to control, posing a significant safety risk, especially in emergencies or during adverse driving conditions.

How can I tell if my struts need to be replaced before they fail completely?

Watch out for key signs such as nose dive during braking, excessive bouncing when driving over bumps, vehicle roll while cornering, uneven tire wear, and rear squat during acceleration. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to get your struts checked or replaced.