When to Replace Your Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts wear out gradually — you often don't notice until they've been bad for a long time. Here's what to watch for.

How Long Do They Last?

• **OEM:** 50,000–100,000 miles
• **Performance replacements:** 50,000–80,000 miles

Rough roads, heavy loads, or off-road driving shortens this significantly.

Signs You Need New Shocks

1. Excessive bouncing — should settle in 1–2 bounces after a bump

2. Nose dive under braking — front dips hard when stopping

3. Excessive body roll — leans dramatically in corners

4. Cupped tire wear — wavy pattern = tire bouncing off the road

5. Oily leaks on the shock body

6. Clunking over bumps — worn mounts or blown shocks

What Happens If You Ignore It?

• Stopping distance increases up to 20%
• Tires wear out 2–3x faster
• Handling becomes unpredictable
• Ball joints, tie rods, and control arm bushings get damaged

Always Replace in Pairs

Both fronts or both rears — never just one side.

Our Recommendations

• **Daily driver:** Bilstein B6 or Monroe OESpectrum
• **Performance/Off-road:** Bilstein B8 or Fox 2.0