What’s the difference between these two options? The answer is pretty straightforward: A loaded strut (also known as a quick strut) comes as an assembly with everything pre-installed , including the coil spring, mount, etc. An unloaded strut does not come as an assembly—all you get is the strut itself.
What is a strut assembly?
A strut assembly is a group of matched components , already put together to help restore a vehicle’s ride height and handling capabilities. Strut Assemblies include a new strut, coil spring, strut mount as well as a protection boot, jounce bumper and spring insulators.
Should I replace the strut or the strut assembly?
A simple rule of thumb is that if the struts or coil springs are being replaced because of age or wear, then also replace the mounts . A worn or damaged part of your strut assembly can cause a variety of symptoms so they should be inspected by a qualified technician before repairs begin.
How do I know if my strut assembly is bad?
- Knocking noises when driving over bumps. The struts are solid units that allow the chassis, wheel assembly and body to move cohesively when a bump is hit while driving. ...
- Car has a bumpy ride. ...
- Floating front end. ...
- Uneven tire wear.
How much does it cost to replace a strut assembly?
A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100 on parts and labor combined. An individual shock and strut assembly costs around $150 to $900, while estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly.
Can you replace just the strut?
It’s not necessary , but it’s usually recommended to replace them in pairs, for example, both front struts or both rear shocks. ... However, if your car is not very old, replacing only one strut or shock absorber may be enough, since the opposite side is not worn out yet.
Which is better Monroe or Gabriel struts?
The main differences between Gabriel vs Monroe are: Gabriel shocks and struts tend to ride firmer , whereas Monroe shocks often provide a smoother drive. Gabriel models do better off-road, whereas Monroe shocks and struts are usually more suited to highway driving.
What 3 major parts make up a strut assembly?
Typically, struts consist of a coil spring to support the vehicle’s weight, a strut housing to provide structural support for the assembly, and a damping unit within the strut housing to control spring and suspension movement.
How much does a strut cost?
When it comes to struts, they are slightly more expensive. To replace a pair of struts, the total cost on average is between $400 and $1000 , including wheel alignment. An individual strut assembly costs approximately $150 to $350, while the labor cost is $100 to $300 for a pair.
What’s included in a strut assembly?
A strut assembly consists of two primary elements: the coil spring , which supports the height, weight and stability of the vehicle; and the shock absorber, which swallows bumps and dampens vibrations caused by irregularities on the roadway.
What noise does a bad strut make?
Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound . You’ll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road. Most front strut assemblies also have a bearing at the top.
What does a damaged strut sound like?
Knocking noises when driving over bumps
When the strut begins to wear out, it will produce a knocking or clunking sound that can be very noticeable. ... 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.
What does a bad strut bearing sound like?
Noises coming from a failing strut mount have been described as clunking, knocking, creaking, and grinding . These are usually more obvious when hitting potholes or speed bumps, driving on rough ground, or driving at low speeds while turning the wheels all the way to the stops.
How long does it take to replace a strut assembly?
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to replace struts. The time to get the struts replaced depends on the skill level of who is replacing them and how rusted the bolts and joints are. When you have worn-out struts, you have to replace them because they can cause more damage.
Can I drive with bad struts?
No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible . A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road. ... Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency.
Should you replace all 4 struts at once?
Finally, replace your struts and shocks in pairs
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four , for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions.
