The Importance of Strut Bearings in Vehicle Suspensions

Strut bearings, also known as upper strut mounts, are essential components of vehicle suspension systems. Their primary function is to provide support for the shock absorber, which absorbs impact and vibrations from the road, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Strut bearings also allow the suspension to move up and down smoothly while providing rotational support for the shock absorber.

Types of Strut Bearings

There are two main types of strut bearings:

• Ball bearings: These bearings use ball bearings to reduce friction between the strut and the body of the vehicle. Ball bearings are commonly used in passenger cars and light trucks.
• Pillow block bearings: These bearings use a rubber or polyurethane cushion to isolate the shock absorber from the body of the vehicle. Pillow block bearings are commonly used in heavy trucks and buses.

Materials Used in Strut Bearings

Strut bearings are typically made from a combination of the following materials:

• Steel: Steel is used for the bearing housing and the inner and outer races.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is used for the bearing cage.
• Rubber: Rubber is used for the cushion in pillow block bearings.
• Polyurethane: Polyurethane is used for the cushion in pillow block bearings and for seals.

Function of Strut Bearings

Strut bearings perform several critical functions in vehicle suspension systems:

• Support the shock absorber: Strut bearings provide support for the shock absorber, ensuring that it remains in place and can effectively absorb impact and vibrations.
• Allow suspension movement: Strut bearings allow the suspension to move up and down smoothly by providing a low-friction surface for the shock absorber to move against.
• Provide rotational support: Strut bearings provide rotational support for the shock absorber, allowing it to turn as the suspension moves.
• Isolating noise and vibrations: Strut bearings help to isolate noise and vibrations from the suspension from the body of the vehicle, providing a quieter and more comfortable ride.

Signs of a Bad Strut Bearing

Worn or damaged strut bearings can cause a variety of problems, including:

• Clunking or rattling noises: Worn strut bearings can cause a clunking or rattling noise when the suspension is compressed or extended.
• Vibration: Worn strut bearings can cause the suspension to vibrate, which can be felt through the steering wheel or the seat.
• Uneven tire wear: Worn strut bearings can cause the tires to wear unevenly, which can reduce their lifespan.
• Poor handling: Worn strut bearings can affect the handling of the vehicle, making it more difficult to control.

Importance of Replacing Worn Strut Bearings

It is important to replace worn strut bearings as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the suspension and to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. Replacing strut bearings is a relatively simple repair that can be performed by a mechanic or a do-it-yourselfer.

How to Replace Strut Bearings

To replace strut bearings, follow these steps:

1. Gather the necessary tools and parts. You will need a socket wrench, a torque wrench, a spring compressor, and new strut bearings.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts and remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Disconnect the sway bar. Use a wrench to disconnect the sway bar from the lower control arm.
4. Compress the coil spring. Use a spring compressor to compress the coil spring.
5. Remove the strut assembly. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the strut assembly in place.
6. Remove the old strut bearing. Use a socket wrench to remove the nut that holds the strut bearing in place.
7. Install the new strut bearing. Place the new strut bearing on the strut assembly and tighten the nut.
8. Install the strut assembly. Insert the strut assembly into the vehicle and tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
9. Connect the sway bar. Use a wrench to connect the sway bar to the lower control arm.
10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Use a lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts and install the tire and wheel assembly.

Prevention

There are several steps you can take to prevent strut bearings from wearing out prematurely:

• Avoid driving on rough roads: Driving on rough roads can put a lot of stress on strut bearings, which can lead to premature wear.
• Get regular alignments: Regular alignments help to keep the suspension in proper alignment, which can reduce the stress on strut bearings.
• Have your suspension inspected regularly: Having your suspension inspected regularly by a mechanic can help to identify and fix problems early on, before they cause damage to strut bearings.

Troubleshooting

If you are experiencing problems with your suspension, it is important to troubleshoot the issue to determine if strut bearings are the cause. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check for noise: Worn strut bearings can cause a clunking or rattling noise when the suspension is compressed or extended.
• Look for vibration: Worn strut bearings can cause the suspension to vibrate, which can be felt through the steering wheel or the seat.
• Inspect the tires: Worn strut bearings can cause the tires to wear unevenly, which can reduce their lifespan.
• Have the suspension inspected: If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to have your suspension inspected by a mechanic to determine if strut bearings are the cause.

FAQs

1. How often should strut bearings be replaced?

The lifespan of strut bearings varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the driving conditions. However, most strut bearings should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

2. Can I replace strut bearings myself?

Replacing strut bearings is a relatively simple repair that can be performed by a mechanic or a do-it-yourselfer. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to use the proper tools and parts.

3. How much does it cost to replace strut bearings?

The cost of replacing strut bearings varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the labor rates in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for the parts and labor.

4. What are the signs of a bad strut bearing?

The signs of a bad strut bearing include:

• Clunking or rattling noises
• Vibration
• Uneven tire wear
• Poor handling

5. What causes strut bearings to wear out?

Strut bearings can wear out due to a number of factors, including:

• Driving on rough roads
• Improper alignment
• Lack of lubrication
• Old age

6. Can I drive with a bad strut bearing?

It is not advisable to drive with a bad strut bearing. Worn strut bearings can affect the handling of the vehicle, making it more difficult to control. Additionally, worn strut bearings can cause damage to the suspension and other components of the vehicle.

Conclusion

Strut bearings are an essential component of vehicle suspension systems. They provide support for the shock absorber, allow the suspension to move up and down smoothly, provide rotational support for the shock absorber, and isolate noise and vibrations from the suspension from the body of the vehicle. Worn or damaged strut bearings can cause a variety of problems, including clunking or rattling noises, vibration, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. It is important to replace worn strut bearings as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the suspension and to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.