Shocks, Struts, & Assemblies
Keep your driving experience as smooth as possible with well-maintained suspension system parts. Whether you want to upgrade your vehicle's suspension system or swap out a damaged strut, you'll find the high-quality shocks, struts, and assemblies you need on eBay.
What shocks do
Shocks are gas-filled, standalone components that control the movement of a vehicle's suspension and springs, absorbing vibrations when driving over bumps. Shocks absorb the kinetic energy and transfer it to heat energy.
What struts do
Struts work with the shocks by supporting the vehicle's weight and providing a mounting place for the coil springs. A piston inside the strut moves up and down to lessen the impact of bumps.
Shocks vs. struts
Many drivers do not understand the difference between shocks and struts. While both parts manage the smoothness of your ride, there is a difference between car shocks and struts.Shocks are typically found in the rear, while car struts are usually in the front. However, some trucks and SUVs have front shocks and rear shocks because their suspensions are designed for durability. Similarly, some vehicles have front struts and rear struts for performance and design requirements.
Types of shocks and struts
Shocks and struts come in various types, each with distinct features and applications. When choosing the right product for your vehicle, consider your driving needs. Is your car just for daily commutes and highway driving? Or do you use your vehicle for high-performance driving or towing?
Shocks for sale and their features:
|
Type |
Features |
Typical Use |
|
Standard Twin-tube shocks |
Basic shock absorption, affordable |
Everyday driving |
|
Gas-charged shocks |
Enhanced control, reduces aeration |
Highway and city driving |
|
Coilover shocks |
Customizable settings, improved control |
Sports and performance vehicles |
|
Heavy-duty shocks |
Increased durability, handles heavy loads |
Towing and commercial vehicles |
|
Monotube shocks |
Improved handling, better response |
Off-road and performance vehicles |
Struts for sale and their features:
|
Type |
Features |
Typical Use |
|
MacPherson struts |
Compact design and structural support |
Modern cars, everyday driving |
|
Twin-tube struts |
Basic damping, integrated coil spring |
Cost-effective, everyday driving |
|
Gas-charged struts |
Improved damping, reduced foaming, gas pressurization |
Highway and city driving, light towing |
|
Adjustable struts |
Customizable damping settings, adaptable to driving needs |
Off-road and varied driving conditions |
|
Coilover struts |
High performance, adjustable ride height |
Sport and performance vehicles |
Brands and types to consider
For dependability and longevity, it's important to search for reputable brands that use durable materials. Struts from top brands include Detroit Axle, Bilstein, KYB and Monroe. KYB is known for long-term reliability while Monroe struts offer advanced technology, but all three feature quality construction. Major brands of shocks include Monroe, KYB, Detroit Axle, Unity Automotive and Bilstein. Each offers a range of products tailored to different needs. For instance, Monroe's gas-charged shocks are suited for daily driving, while Bilstein's performance shocks cater to racing enthusiasts.
FAQs
What is a shock and strut assembly?
A shock and strut assembly combines a shock absorber and a strut into one unit, providing both impact absorption and structural support for your vehicle's suspension. A coilover is a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single, integrated unit. Coilovers are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride height and stiffness of your vehicle's suspension. That makes them popular among performance enthusiasts who want to improve handling and customize their vehicle's setup for aesthetics or performance.
Why are shocks and struts important?
As essential components of a vehicle's suspension system, shocks and struts impact everything from ride comfort to vehicle control to tire performance. Each wheel has a shock or strut that stops you from feeling every bump in the road. When a wheel hits a bump, it wants to keep bouncing. Without shocks or struts, this would make your ride very uncomfortable. Shocks and struts allow the springs to compress easily but slow them down as they return to their normal position, like a storm door that opens quickly but closes gently.
How do you know when to replace shocks and struts?
Consider replacing your shocks and struts if you notice any of these performance issues:
- Ride feels progressively bumpier and rougher
- Tires are wearing down unevenly
- Vehicle sways or handles poorly, especially on turns
- Vehicle dips or "nose dives" when braking
- Visible damage or leaks coming from shocks or struts
What if you wait too long to change your shocks and struts?
Aside from the uncomfortable ride, neglecting your shocks and struts can lead to damage to other vehicle components. The vibrations from undamped bumps will cause additional wear and tear to your brakes, tires, chassis, and more. This means more repairs and safety issues.
Can you replace your own shocks and struts?
While replacing shock absorbers is a beginner-level project, updating your car shock and strut assembly is a bit more challenging. Strut replacement requires specialized tools and handling additional suspension parts. If you are not an experienced mechanic, it's recommended that you take your shock and strut assembly to a professional garage for installation.