The suspension system on your vehicle consists of a wide variety of systems and components designed to wear over time to keep your ride as comfortable and safe as possible. While these parts typically last for several years, they eventually need to be replaced to bring the system back into like-new condition. Struts, axles, motor mounts, bushings, and joints are among the most common components that must be replaced over time.
How Long Should My Suspension Components Last?
Struts
The struts in your vehicle are essential components designed to absorb the shocks and vibrations experienced while driving, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Struts use hydraulic fluid to compress and decompress, allowing the wheel to move up and down without compromising the chassis or suspension.
On average, factory struts can last anywhere from 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles depending on various factors, such as the quality of the strut, type of vehicle, and road conditions. Strut longevity will be shorter for those who drive off-road more often or on roads with rougher surfaces. As such, upgrading to higher quality GSP AdvantEdge struts is a great way to ensure your safety and comfort while driving by providing superior performance compared to factory struts with similar fitment.
CV Axles
CV axles are critical components of a car or truck's drivetrain and suspension system. They connect the transmission to the wheels, enabling them to rotate and turn while allowing the wheel to move up and down with the suspension. A CV axle consists of a single shaft with universal joints at each end, which allows for greater flexibility in movement.
The lifespan of a factory CV axle is highly dependent on driving conditions and style. In mild climates and on well-maintained roads, these axles can last anywhere from 70,000-130,000 miles. However, if you're consistently driving on rough terrain or doing extreme off-roading activities, then it's likely your CV axle will need to be replaced much sooner than that. Driving habits like hard acceleration and sharp turning can also lead to decreased performance and accelerated wear-and-tear of your CV axle.
Wheel Hubs
The wheel hubs on a vehicle play an essential role in providing the wheels with a dependable mounting surface as well as enabling smooth, hassle-free rotation. These components are typically found inside the wheel hub, along with a wheel bearing that sits on the steering knuckle and allows for rotating motion. As this component begins to break down, you may start to notice an unpleasant metal-on-metal sound or squeaking noise while your car is in motion.
Wheel hubs are designed to last approximately 100,000 miles, meaning they should need replacing no more than twice during the life span of your car. Unfortunately, they do not have any serviceable or maintainable parts, so when wear and tear become too much to bear, you will need to purchase new ones when they go out.
Motor Mounts
Motor mounts are a crucial component of any vehicle, connecting the engine to the frame and reducing vibrations. They are placed in between the two parts so that when your engine is running, it helps to absorb some of the vibrations and keep them from affecting you and your passengers. This is done through a specialized rubber bushing, which is designed for flexibility and has a long lifespan if taken care of properly.
Generally speaking, motor mounts can last anywhere from 5-7 years but this depends on how often you use your car, as well as the type of climate in which you're driving. If it's especially hot or cold outside, this can have an effect on the durability of your mount and may cause it to become brittle over time. Additionally, prolonged exposure to certain elements like saltwater or dirt can also cause damage due to corrosion or wear.
It is always recommended when any under-car service is done, that all parts and related systems are checked to ensure no other damage or wear is present.
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