The "bounce test" always works for me. Push repeatedly on the front of the vehicle until you can get it moving up and down several inches, then quit pushing and watch. The vehicle should only continue moving for just one "cycle" (up then down or down then up) If it moves much more than that, the struts are bad. Also, visually check the struts. If they are damaged, leaking oil pr the bushings are coming apart, that's good sign that they need to be replaced.
Push down on the vehicle 4-5 times. If it springs back up 3 times, the springs are worn. This test is not for McFerson struts.
Push down on the front of the car. If it bounces a couple times, instead of just coming back up, they need replacing.
Shocks and struts are automotive parts. They are present in all motor vehicles, as they perform a very important duty. They are responsible for stabilizing the vehicle on the road keeping it riding smoothly.
On any vehicle equipped with struts, a strut is just a shock absorber that is a integral part of the steering geometry. Some symptoms are unusual vibration in steering. scalloped or cupped wear patterns on the tires, and oil leakage from the top of the strut tube. Most struts last about 50K MI.
You can tell if the rear struts need replacement by checking for signs such as excessive bouncing or swaying while driving, uneven tire wear, or noticeable fluid leaks around the struts. Additionally, if you hear clunking noises when going over bumps or feel a rougher ride than usual, these can also indicate that the struts are worn out. A visual inspection can reveal physical damage or rust, which further suggests the need for replacement.
Have a friend drive behind closely and watch for wheel bouncing.
You can tell if the front struts are bad by pushing down on the fender for each side. If the car bounces more tha 1 time they need to be replaced. Front end shimmy, replace the struts.
You can tell if struts are going out by observing several signs, such as a bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll during turns, or uneven tire wear. Additionally, if you notice increased braking distance or a tendency for the vehicle to nose dive when stopping, these may indicate strut issues. Listening for clunking noises when driving over bumps can also be a warning sign that your struts need attention. Regular inspections and pay attention to how your vehicle handles can help catch these issues early.
You can tell when your wheel bearings need replacing is when they are making unusual noises. For example: squealing, groaning, chirping or cracking noises. If this happens, get it checked out right away.
You can tell if amp tubes need replacing by listening for distorted or weak sound, observing flickering or glowing tubes, and checking for physical damage or discoloration on the tubes.
You can tell if your struts are broken by observing signs such as excessive bouncing or swaying of the vehicle when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, or a noticeable decline in ride comfort. Additionally, if you hear a knocking or clunking noise when going over bumps, it may indicate strut issues. Performing a bounce test—pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and observing how it reacts—can also help; if it continues to bounce more than once or twice, the struts may be worn or damaged.
Contact your local motor vehicle department and they will tell you exactly what you need to bring with you to register your vehicle.