Automotive Q & A

Answer:

Struts are a part of your vehicle’s suspension system and provide you with a comfortable ride. Struts contain several different key suspension parts:

• the coil spring
• spring seats
• shock absorbers
• strut bearing
• and the steering knuckle

Struts have two main jobs: first, they support the vehicle’s weight and provide structural support, and second, they dampen the spring’s movements as they react to the road surface. Struts provide structural support by connecting the upper strut bearing to the lower ball joint. This allows the strut to move as the tire is turned. Your vehicle’s suspension is in charge of keeping your tires in contact with the road surface at all times. Struts are a dampening device for your vehicle. This means that they “dampen” or absorb the excess bouncing of your vehicle’s suspension as your vehicle passes over uneven road surfaces. Your vehicle’s springs will allow the tire to move up or down to stay in contact with the road; your vehicle’s shock absorbers dampen the excess movement of the shocks.