Shocks & Struts in Davidsonville and Easton, MD
Does your car feel bouncy over bumps? Does it nosedive when you hit the brakes or lean hard into turns? If any of that sounds familiar, there’s a good chance your shocks and struts are ready for some attention. At Choisser Automotive Services in Davidsonville and Easton, MD, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing suspension issues so your ride stays smooth, steady, and safe.
What Are Shocks and Struts, Exactly?
Both shocks and struts are part of your car’s suspension system. They help control the movement of your vehicle when you hit a bump, take a corner, or come to a stop. Even though they do similar jobs, they’re not the same part.
- Shocks (short for shock absorbers) keep your tires in contact with the road by managing bounce and motion.
- Struts combine the shock absorber with a structural component of the suspension system. They also help support your vehicle’s weight.
Depending on your car’s make and model, you might have one or the other—or both. Either way, if they’re worn out, your vehicle’s handling, braking, and ride quality will suffer.
Signs Your Shocks or Struts Need Attention
You don’t have to be a mechanic to notice when your suspension starts to fade. Here are a few common symptoms that point to problems with your shocks or struts:
- Excessive bouncing after hitting a bump
- Front-end dipping when braking
- Uneven tire wear
- Fluid leaking from the shocks or struts
- Steering feels loose or “floaty”
- Clunking or knocking noises when driving over rough roads
- Longer stopping distances
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, don’t wait. Worn suspension parts can seriously affect your vehicle’s safety and drivability.
What Causes Shocks and Struts to Wear Out?
Like most components, shocks and struts wear down over time when used normally. But a few factors can speed up the process:
- Driving on rough or uneven roads
- Hitting potholes, curbs, or speed bumps too hard
- Carrying heavy loads or towing frequently
- Extended exposure to moisture, road salt, or grime
As these parts break down, they lose their ability to control the motion of your suspension. That means more bouncing, more body roll, and less control.
How We Handle Shocks & Struts Replacement
At Choisser Automotive Services, we start with a full suspension inspection. Our trained techs check the shocks, struts, springs, and mounting points for wear, damage, or leaks. If we spot something off, we’ll explain exactly what’s happening and what needs to be replaced.
Here’s what our typical service includes:
- Complete inspection of all suspension components
- Replacement of worn shocks or struts with quality parts
- Check and adjust wheel alignment if needed
- Road test to verify everything feels right
We use top-rated parts that meet or exceed your vehicle’s factory specs. We don’t cut corners—just solid repairs done right.
What Makes Suspension So Important?
Shocks and struts significantly affect how your car handles, brakes, and feels. When they’re working correctly, you get:
- Smoother rides over bumps and rough roads
- Better handling around corners
- Improved stopping power when braking
- Even tire wear, which helps your tires last longer
- Reduced wear on other suspension parts
When they wear out, everything feels loose, unpredictable, and uncomfortable. It’s not just about ride quality—it’s about control and safety.
How Long Do Shocks and Struts Last?
Most shocks and struts are built to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and road conditions. That said, if you do a lot of highway driving, carry heavy loads, or take backroads regularly, you may need to replace them sooner.
We recommend having your suspension checked annually or when you notice symptoms like bouncing, nose-diving, or weird tire wear.
Can I Replace Just One Shock or Strut?
Technically, yes—but we don’t recommend it. Replacing just one side can throw off your vehicle’s balance and lead to uneven wear. It’s best to replace them in pairs (both front or both rear) so everything stays balanced and consistent.
We’ll always give you honest recommendations based on what your car needs. If a full replacement isn’t necessary, we won’t push it.
The Difference at Choisser Automotive
When it comes to Shocks & Struts in Davidsonville and Easton, MD, we take a comprehensive approach. We don’t just swap out parts—we examine the entire suspension system to ensure everything works as it should.
Our team takes time to explain the issues, show you what we find, and answer any questions. You’ll always get clear communication, fair pricing, and lasting repairs.
We also test-drive every vehicle after repairs to ensure it feels right before we hand you back the keys.
Extra Services You Might Need With Suspension Work
Sometimes, replacing your shocks and struts brings other issues to light. That’s why we also check:
- Wheel alignment – New suspension parts can shift the alignment
- Ball joints and control arms – Worn joints affect handling
- Steering components – Loose parts can cause poor response
- Bushings and mounts – Cracked or worn mounts can lead to clunking or squeaking
We’ll only recommend additional work if it truly needs to be done—and we’ll show you why.
Tips for Keeping Your Suspension Healthy
Want to help your shocks and struts last longer? Try these simple habits:
- Slow down over speed bumps and rough roads.
- Avoid potholes whenever you can.
- Don’t overload your vehicle.
- Rotate your tires regularly.
- Get your suspension checked every year.
A little caution goes a long way toward extending the life of your suspension system.
FAQs About Shocks and Struts Replacement
Q: Can I drive with bad shocks or struts?
A: You can, but it’s not a great idea. You’ll have less control, more tire wear, and longer stopping distances.
Q: How do I know if I need shocks, struts, or both?
A: We’ll inspect your vehicle and let you know what it has and what needs replacement.
Q: Is it expensive to replace shocks and struts?
A: Costs vary by vehicle, but we always offer fair pricing and high-quality parts.
Q: Do new shocks and struts make a difference?
A: Absolutely. The difference in ride comfort, handling, and safety is immediately noticeable.
Q: How long does the service take?
A: Most replacements can be done in a day. We’ll give you a time estimate before we begin.
Get Back to Smooth, Confident Driving
If your car feels rough, wobbly, or not as tight as it used to, your suspension might need a check. At Choisser Automotive Services in Davidsonville, MD, we’re here to help with expert shocks and struts replacement, detailed inspections, and top-tier service from start to finish.
Call us today to schedule your appointment, book online, or swing by the shop. Let’s get your vehicle riding smooth, turning tight, and stopping steady—just the way it should.