Questions and Answers

Shocks And Struts Q. What is the difference between struts and shocks? Nobody seems to know. Please help. Tony

A. As far as the internal workings of shocks and MacPherson struts go, there is very little difference. The main difference is the outside. A shock is usually mounted between the lower control arm and the body. A MacPherson strut not only provides ride dampening, it also becomes part of the suspension system. It replaces the upper control arm, upper ball joint and standard shock absorber. In most cases the front springs are also incorporated, making one complete unit.

A MacPherson strut suspension is much more precise and simplifies the suspension by eliminating parts that can wear out and holds a wheel alignment much better. The down side is that often to correct an alignment problem, you need to replace the whole strut assembly, also costing more than a standard pair of shocks.

Most MacPherson strut assemblies have a provision where you can replace the shock absorbing parts while others have to be completely replaced.

In the picture below you can see a MacPherson strut assembly on the left and a standard shock absorber on the right.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA