Why Shocks and Struts Matter for Your Car’s Safety and Comfort

When it comes to keeping your family safe on the road, most drivers think first about brakes and tires. But did you know your shocks and struts play just as big a role in how well your car handles, how quickly it stops, and how comfortable your ride feels?

At Accomplished Auto in Concord, NH, we often see shocks and struts that are long past their prime. Because they wear out slowly, many drivers don’t realize their suspension is overdue for service until it affects safety or damages tires. If you live in Concord or nearby towns like Bow, Contoocook, Hopkinton, Webster, Boscawen, Chichester, Canterbury, Loudon, or Pembroke, our local roads—with frost heaves, potholes, and rough conditions—can wear these parts out even faster.

Here’s what you should know about shocks and struts, how to spot the signs of wear, and the benefits of replacing them (especially with a professional alignment).

What Do Shocks and Struts Do?

Shocks and struts are key parts of your car’s suspension system. Their main job is to:

• Control bouncing: Without shocks, your car would keep bouncing after every bump.
• Improve handling: They keep your tires firmly planted on the road, so you stay in control while cornering, accelerating, and braking.
• Protect your tires and suspension: By limiting how much your wheels bounce, shocks and struts reduce uneven tire wear and prevent extra stress on steering and suspension parts.
• Make your ride smoother: They absorb the jolts from potholes, speed bumps, and rough pavement, making the ride more comfortable for you and your passengers.

In short, they’re not just about comfort—they’re about safety.

Signs Your Shocks or Struts May Be Worn

Because shocks and struts wear down gradually, it’s easy to get used to the changes in your vehicle. But here are some common signs to watch for:

• 🚗 Bouncy ride: Your car keeps bouncing after hitting a bump or dip in the road.
• 🚦 Nose diving when braking: The front of your car dips sharply when you press the brakes.
• 🛞 Uneven tire wear: Tires show cupping or scalloped tread patterns.
• 🌀 Poor handling: The car sways or leans too much when turning or changing lanes.
• 💧 Leaking fluid: Visible oil or grease on the outside of the shock or strut.
• ⏳ High mileage: Most shocks and struts should be inspected around 50,000 miles, though New England driving conditions can shorten their life.

If you’ve noticed one or more of these issues, it’s a good idea to have your suspension checked by a trusted professional.

Why Timely Replacement Matters

Delaying shock or strut service can lead to bigger, more expensive problems:

• Longer stopping distances: Worn shocks can increase braking distance by up to 10 feet at highway speeds.
• Uneven tire wear: Bad shocks cause tires to wear out faster, costing you more in replacements.
• Damage to other parts: Excess bouncing and movement put added strain on ball joints, tie rods, and bushings.
• Reduced safety: Poor handling and control can be dangerous in emergencies—especially on wet or icy New Hampshire roads.

The Benefits of New Shocks and Struts

Replacing your shocks and struts doesn’t just prevent problems—it improves your driving experience immediately. Benefits include:

• Safer driving: Shorter stopping distances and better control during emergencies.
• Smoother ride: Comfort for you and your passengers, especially on long drives.
• Better handling: More stable cornering and less body roll.
• Longer tire life: Even tread wear means your tires last longer.
• Peace of mind: Confidence knowing your suspension is working the way it should.

Why Alignment Is Just as Important

Whenever shocks or struts are replaced, it’s critical to do a wheel alignment. Here’s why:

• Ensures all four wheels are properly aligned for straight tracking.
• Prevents uneven tire wear, extending tire life.
• Restores factory handling and steering feel.
• Maximizes the performance of your new suspension parts.

At Accomplished Auto, we always recommend pairing suspension work with an alignment so you get the full benefit of the repair.

Trusted Suspension Service in Concord, NH

At Accomplished Auto, we know how rough New Hampshire roads can be on your vehicle. Our friendly, knowledgeable team has helped families and everyday drivers from Concord, Bow, Contoocook, Hopkinton, Webster, Boscawen, Chichester, Canterbury, Loudon, and Pembroke keep their vehicles safe and reliable for years.

We’ll carefully inspect your shocks and struts, explain what we find in plain language, and give you honest recommendations. If it’s time for replacement, you can trust us to use quality parts and perform a professional alignment, so your vehicle is ready for every trip—from daily school runs to long holiday drives.

Keep Your Family Safe and Comfortable on the Road

If you’ve noticed your car bouncing more than usual, leaning in corners, or your tires wearing unevenly, don’t wait. Your shocks and struts may be telling you it’s time for service.

👉 Call Accomplished Auto at 603-226-6630 or schedule an appointment online to have your suspension checked today.

A small repair now can make a big difference in safety, comfort, and savings down the road.