How many miles do shocks and struts last?
Experts recommend replacement of automotive shocks and struts at 50,000 miles*. Testing has shown that original equipment gas-charged shocks and struts degrade measurably by 50,000 miles. For many popular-selling vehicles, replacing these worn shocks and struts can improve the vehicle's handling characteristics and comfort. Unlike a tire, which rotates a specific number of times per mile, a shock absorber or strut may compress and extend several times per mile on a smooth road, or several hundred times per mile on a very rough road. There are other factors that affect the life of a shock or strut, such as, regional weather conditions, amount and type of road contaminates, driving habits, loading of the vehicle, tire / wheel modifications, and the general mechanical condition of the suspension and tires. Have your shocks and struts inspected by any ASE Certified Technician once a year, or every 12,000 miles.
*Actual mileage may vary, depending upon driver ability, vehicle type, and the type of driving and road conditions.