We’re talking to Yakima motorists about shocks and struts. They’re so easy for WA folks to forget about because they last so long and wear out so slowly. But your shocks are really responsible for keeping your tires on the road.

What shocks do

Without shocks, your wheels would be bouncing over bumps and lifting in corners. The shocks push the tire down to the road to maximize traction. Good shocks equal good ride quality and safe handling for Yakima drivers.

Shocks, springs and struts definitions

There’s a difference between shocks and springs. Springs support the weight of the vehicle, keeping it suspended up off the axles. The shocks moderate the rebound motion as wheels hit bumps. Now a strut combines a shock and a coil spring in one compact unit.

How to know if you have a problem with your shocks and struts

When your shocks are worn out you may notice degraded handling as you drive around our Yakima streets. Your vehicle feels squirmy around corners and floaty over bumps. Yakima drivers may notice the rear end squatting when they accelerate or the front end diving when you brake. Your car might even be sagging at one corner.

Uneven tire wear can also be an important sign of worn shocks for Yakima car owners. Of course, if your shocks are leaking or have a big dent, they need to be replaced. Talk to your thoughtful AutoMetrics tech.

When to replace shocks and struts

Your owner’s manual will have a recommendation for when to replace the shocks and struts on your car or truck. It’s usually between thirty and fifty thousand miles. Of course, if you tow a lot, regularly carry heavy loads or do a lot of driving on bumpy Yakima roads, your shocks might wear out faster. 

Special shocks

If those Yakima area driving conditions apply to you, you can get special shocks that are better suited to your driving. The shocks that come from the factory are designed for the way most consumers are expected to drive that particular vehicle. If you have different needs for your driving around Yakima, WA, you can get premium shocks that improve performance handling, off-road abilities or towing comfort. Your Yakima, WA tech at AutoMetrics can help you determine your needs and then give you some options.

Replace all 4 shocks at once

It’s best to replace all four shocks at the same time. That way you’ll have even, predictable handling at all four corners. Anything less could be detrimental.