Alton Brobst As a Subaru owner, you know that your car is built to last. Compact, versatile, and powerful, your Subaru is designed to handle a variety of terrains and weather conditions. But what about your shocks? You might not give these small parts a second thought, but they play a crucial role in your car’s performance and overall safety.
In this article, we’ll discuss how long your Subaru shocks are meant to last and the factors that can impact their lifespan.
What are Shocks and Why are They Important?
Shocks, also known as shock absorbers, are components of a car’s suspension system that help absorb the impact and vibration caused by uneven roads, potholes, and bumps. Without shocks, your car would bounce around and become unstable, making it difficult to control and dangerous to drive.
There are two types of shocks commonly used in Subaru cars: twin-tube shocks and monotube shocks. Twin-tube shocks are cheaper and a popular choice for most Subarus. However, monotube shocks are more durable and make for a smoother ride.
How Long Do Subaru Shocks Last?
The lifespan of a shock can vary depending on several factors such as the type of shock, the terrain you drive on, your driving style, and your maintenance routine. As a general rule of thumb, Subaru shocks can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000+ miles.
However, shock lifespan is not always a straightforward issue. Even if your Subaru only has 20,000 miles on it, the shocks could have worn out if you’ve been driving on rough roads or carrying heavy loads regularly.
Factors That Impact Shock Lifespan
The lifespan of your Subaru shocks can be influenced by several factors:
Terrain
If you mostly drive on smooth highways or city roads, your shocks will experience less wear and tear compared to someone who drives frequently on bumpy dirt roads.
Driving Style
Aggressive driving, including sudden braking, hard acceleration, and speeding over speed bumps or railroad crossings, can put additional stress on your shocks.
Load
Your shocks need to support the weight of your car while also absorbing the shock from bumps in the road. Overloading your car with heavy cargo or towing a trailer can put extra pressure on your shocks, causing them to wear out faster.
Regular Maintenance
Like any other part of your car, regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of your shocks.
Having your shocks inspected and replaced (if needed) every time you get an oil change or every 50,000 miles is a good practice to follow.
Signs That Your Shocks Need Replacing
It’s important to know when your Subaru shocks are nearing the end of their lifespan. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Your car bounces excessively on rough roads.
- You hear a knocking or rattling sound when driving over bumps.
- Your car nose-dives when braking.
- Your car sways or leans when turning.
- You notice uneven tire wear.
If you experience any of these signs, it’s time to have your shocks inspected and replaced. Delaying replacement could lead to further wear and tear on other parts of your car’s suspension system, leading to a more expensive repair in the long run.
Conclusion
Your Subaru shocks are an often-overlooked but vital component of your car’s suspension system. Ensuring you have the proper shock type installed, driving on smooth terrain, avoiding aggressive driving, maintaining proper weight loads, and regular shock inspections all contribute to the lifespan of your shocks. And with regular maintenance and careful driving, you can enjoy a smooth and safe ride in your Subaru for years to come.
