Struts
Smooth out a bumpy ride with new struts. At Santa Cruz Auto Parts in Santa Cruz we have top brands at the right price. Talk to our auto parts experts for same day ordering and service. Read More About Struts»

A shock and a strut do the same basic job on a vehicle, damping the movement of the spring to create the feeling of an even ride. However, shocks and struts are completely different parts. Call us at 831-423-2500 or come by at 1919 Soquel Avenue to find out if your car or truck needs shocks or struts. In most cases, a car or truck will have either a shock or a strut for each wheel but never both. There are a few vehicle types that have struts on the front axle and shocks on the rear.

What's the difference in a Shock vs a Strut?

Struts

A strut is a built-in part of the vehicle's suspension system whereas a shock is an added component. A strut is an integral part of the steering system. The camber and caster angles are specific to the strut itself. Your struts are the pivot point for the car or trucks steering system and require correct alignment when replaced.

Shocks

Your shock absorber controls unwanted "bumps" by dampening their impact on the suspension's springs and pistons through the use of hydraulic fluid. The spring sits on top of or around your shock absorber.

Your shock absorber is essentially just a double-walled tube filled with hydraulic fluid. When your car hits a "bump" your suspension springs transfer the energy of the bump to the shock absorber. The shock absorber moves a small amount of fluid from the inner tube to the outer tube, slowing down the piston to minimize a "bump".