How Long Can You Drive With Bad Struts?

Hey there, DIYers! Ever wondered about those struts in your vehicle? You know, those parts that keep your ride smooth and your steering precise. Well, today we’re diving into the world of struts, their importance, and what happens when they go bad. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What are Struts?

Struts are a crucial part of your vehicle’s suspension system. They’re like the unsung heroes of your car, working tirelessly to absorb shocks from the road and ensure your vehicle handles like a dream. They’re more than just shock absorbers, though. Struts also support the weight of your vehicle and help maintain proper tire contact with the road. So, next time you’re cruising down the highway, remember to thank your struts for that smooth ride!

Signs of Bad Struts

Now, struts are sturdy, but they’re not invincible. Over time, they can wear out, and when they do, they’ll start giving you signs. Here are some telltale signs that your struts might be on their last legs:

• Uneven tire wear: When your struts are in top shape, they help keep your vehicle steady and your tires firmly on the ground. But when they start to fail, your vehicle may start to bounce a bit more, causing your tires to lose contact with the road. This can lead to uneven tire wear, a sign that your struts might need some attention. You might notice patterns like cupping or scalloping on your tires, which are caused by the bouncing and reduced road holding force.
• Oil leaks on and around the struts: Struts are filled with hydraulic fluid, which helps them absorb shocks. If you start to see oil around your struts, it could be a sign that the seals are worn out and the fluid is leaking. This is a clear sign of strut trouble. Remember, without the hydraulic fluid, your struts can’t do their job properly.
• Excessive bouncing of the vehicle: Struts are designed to absorb the shocks from the road, keeping your ride smooth. If your car starts feeling like a roller coaster ride, it’s a sign your struts aren’t absorbing shocks like they should. This excessive bouncing can make your ride uncomfortable and can also be a sign of strut trouble.
• Wobbly steering wheel: Struts play a crucial role in your vehicle’s alignment. If they’re worn out, your steering wheel might start to feel loose or wobbly. This can make it harder to steer your vehicle and can be a sign that your struts need to be replaced.
• Excessive body roll around turns: If your car leans a lot when you’re making turns, it could be a sign of worn-out struts. This is because struts help control the body roll of your vehicle. When they’re worn out, they can’t control the roll as effectively, leading to excessive body roll around turns.

Remember, these signs can be subtle and may not be easily recognized during normal driving conditions. The rate of strut wear can depend on various factors such as road and environmental conditions, your driving style, and vehicle load. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to consult with a certified technician or mechanic. They can help confirm whether your struts are bad and advise you on the next steps.

Consequences of Driving with Bad Struts

Driving with bad struts is like dancing on thin ice. It’s risky and can lead to some serious consequences. Here’s what can happen:

• Safety risks: Bad struts can affect your vehicle’s handling, making it harder to steer and brake effectively. This can increase your risk of accidents, especially in poor weather conditions.
• Impact on vehicle performance: Worn-out struts can make your ride less comfortable and more bumpy. They can also affect your vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration.
• Potential damage to other parts of the vehicle: Bad struts can put extra stress on other parts of your suspension system, leading to more wear and tear and potentially costly repairs.

How to Diagnose Bad Struts

So, how do you know if your struts are bad? Well, aside from the signs we mentioned earlier, there are a few tests you can do:

• Visual inspection: Check your struts for signs of damage or oil leaks. Also, look at your tires for uneven wear.
• Bouncing test: Push down on the hood or trunk of your car. If it bounces more than twice, your struts might be worn out.
• Steering wheel test: If your steering wheel feels loose or wobbly, it could be a sign of bad struts.
• Body roll test: Pay attention to how your car handles turns. If it leans a lot, your struts might be to blame.

If you’re not sure, it’s always a good idea to get a professional inspection. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, right?

Remember, your struts are essential for your vehicle’s performance and your safety. So, don’t ignore the signs of bad struts. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to get a professional opinion. After all, when it comes to your vehicle, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

For more DIY tips and tricks, check out our other articles like how to use a torque wrench or how to load a grease gun. Happy wrenching!

We talked about what struts are, how to spot the signs of bad struts, the consequences of driving with them, and how to diagnose the issue. Now, let’s dive into what to do when your struts go bad and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get to it!

What to Do When Struts Go Bad

So, you’ve spotted the signs and diagnosed the issue. Your struts are bad. Now what? Well, here’s what you need to do:

• Don’t ignore the problem: Bad struts can lead to serious safety issues and damage to your vehicle. So, don’t put off dealing with the problem.
• Get a professional inspection: If you’re not 100% sure about your diagnosis, get a professional to take a look. They can confirm whether your struts are bad and advise you on the next steps.
• Replace the struts: If your struts are indeed bad, you’ll need to replace them. This is a job that requires some technical skills, so if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Remember, your safety is paramount. So, don’t take chances with bad struts. Get them replaced as soon as possible.

How Long Can You Drive with Bad Struts?

The question of how long you can drive with bad struts is a common one, and the answer is quite simple: not for long. It’s akin to asking how far you can walk with a sprained ankle. Sure, you can still move, but it’s neither comfortable nor advisable.

Driving with faulty struts is a risk that’s not worth taking. They play a crucial role in your vehicle’s handling, steering, and braking. When they’re not in good shape, all these aspects are compromised.

Now, to answer the question a bit more directly: You can drive for a short period of time with bad struts, but it’s not recommended. The exact length of time can vary depending on how bad the struts are and how you drive. However, it’s important to note that even a short drive can be risky.

So, if you suspect your struts are in bad shape, the best course of action is to get them checked and replaced as soon as possible. It’s a small price to pay for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

FAQs

Now, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about struts:

Can you drive far with bad struts?

Not recommended. Bad struts can make your vehicle unsafe to drive. So, if you suspect your struts are bad, get them checked and replaced as soon as possible.

How long can you go without replacing struts?

It depends on how bad the struts are and how you drive. But generally, it’s not a good idea to go long without replacing bad struts.

Can bad struts mess up your car?

Yes, they can. Bad struts can lead to uneven tire wear, damage to your suspension system, and even affect your vehicle’s handling and braking.

What happens if a strut breaks while driving?

If a strut breaks while you’re driving, it can be very dangerous. It can affect your vehicle’s handling and make it harder to control. So, if you suspect a strut is broken, stop driving and get it fixed as soon as possible.

Is it dangerous to drive with bad struts?

Yes, it is. Bad struts can make your vehicle unsafe to drive. So, don’t take chances. If you suspect your struts are bad, get them checked and replaced as soon as possible.

For more DIY tips and tricks, checkout our other articles like how to use an oil filter wrench or how to remove 3M tape from your car. Until next time, happy wrenching!

Wrapping Up

And there you have it, folks! We’ve covered everything you need to know about struts, from what they are and how to spot the signs of bad struts, to what to do when they go bad and how to answer some common questions. Remember, your struts are crucial for your vehicle’s performance and your safety. So, don’t ignore the signs of bad struts. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to get a professional opinion.Stay safe on the roads!