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What is the Difference Between Shocks and Struts?
You’ve heard quite a bit of talk about them, but nobody has yet to give you a good interpretation of the difference between shocks and struts. You understand they’re both suspension components that dampen suspension oscillation. You also understand that most newer cars have struts in front, and shocks in the back. With a shock absorber, the oscillation dampening component is integral to the shock assembly. With a MacPherson strut, you have a replaceable strut cartridge that performs the dampening of suspension oscillations. Herein lies the major difference between shocks and struts. With a shock absorber, when it goes bad, you replace the whole unit. With a strut, you remove the whole unit and remove the cartridge from inside the strut housing.
