Hi there, my vehicle is here for an oil change, but I was wondering… how do I know when to replace shocks and struts?

Are you having a specific problem with your vehicle?

No, I don’t think so, but It’s getting older and everyone seems to have a different opinion about when to replace them.

I’m not surprised.  There’s really no specific age, mileage or test that would be 100% correct.   

OK, but that’s not helping me.

Well, here’s what I can tell you: It used to be that replacing them was recommended every 5 years or 50,000 miles. But 2 things changed that. First, it was proven that every vehicle model, how and where it was driven makes a difference in when to replace them. So, it becomes an opinion. And second, when struts became popular in place of shocks, the price to replace them went up considerably. So without an industry standard and with replacement costs going up most service providers stopped recommending them. That’s become a real problem because most vehicles would benefit from replacement shocks and struts.

OK, but that’s still not helping me.

So here’s my answer: There’s 3 basic reasons about when to replace shocks and struts:

One, if there’s a failed shock or strut like an active, visual leak or physical damage.

Two, to restore designed performance based on a road test that finds a loss of handling, control or ride performance. (KYB has an app that helps us do this) If you’re vehicle doesn’t have the control it is capable of, it makes sense to have new shocks installed.

Or Three, a decision to upgrade performance based on your needs or choice. Some people want sharper handling or more control that what their vehicle currently has, these people buy shocks buy shocks as upgrades.

What we can do to help you decide is to perform both a physical inspection and a road test. Then you’ll be able to have your own informed opinion.

That finally answers my question. When can you do the inspections?

Glad to help, that’s what we’re here for.

This video is sponsored by KYB.