If your vehicle bounces two or three times after hitting a bump—rather than settling quickly—your shock absorbers or struts have lost their damping ability and are no longer controlling the suspension's spring movement. Beyond comfort, worn dampers increase stopping distance (the nose pitches more than it should under braking), reduce steering precision on uneven pavement, and cause tires to bounce rather than maintain full road contact. Many drivers adapt gradually to a worsening ride without realizing how significantly handling has degraded. Shocks and struts are typically recommended for inspection every 50,000 miles and are a common deficiency on high-mileage vehicles.
Strut work is done in pairs—both fronts or both rears—to maintain even handling and prevent the vehicle from pulling to one side. A wheel alignment is performed after strut replacement because new components alter the suspension geometry. We'll also inspect the opposing pair while we're working so you have a clear picture of their condition. Learn more about our Strut Replacement service.
From diagnosis to repair, we keep you informed every step of the way.
Call or text us to describe what you're experiencing.
Bring your vehicle in for a thorough inspection.
We explain what we found and quote before any work begins.
Experienced technicians complete the repair with quality parts.
We test drive and verify the repair before returning your car.
That repeated bouncing after a road irregularity—rather than a single dampened thud—means your shocks or struts have lost their damping ability. They can no longer control the spring's oscillation after compression. Push down firmly on any corner of your car and release it; if it bounces more than once, the dampers on that corner are worn.
Both, but the safety aspect gets underestimated. Worn shocks increase braking distance because the nose pitches more under braking, reduce cornering stability, and cause tires to lose contact with the road on uneven surfaces. In an emergency stop, the difference between firm and worn shocks is measurable stopping distance.
Strut replacement typically costs $400–$800 per pair including parts, labor, and alignment. Shock replacement is usually $200–$500 per pair. We replace in pairs on each axle for balanced handling, and we inspect the opposing pair while we're working so you have a complete picture of their condition.
These are the most common reasons drivers experience this symptom.
Struts lose their hydraulic damping ability over time and can no longer control spring rebound.
Shocks degrade gradually, eventually allowing the suspension to bounce freely on every irregularity.
Worn rubber suspension bushings allow excessive movement that amplifies ride harshness.
Not sure if this is your issue? Browse other common problems we fix.
Contact Scott's Auto and Clutch today for honest service and expert repairs.
144 W Crystal Ave, South Salt Lake, UT 84115