Ford Strut & Suspension Service
Your Ford’s suspension system does more than just provide a comfortable ride - it’s a critical safety system responsible for keeping your tires firmly planted on the road. Headed by the struts and shock absorbers, this complex network of components absorbs impacts from potholes and bumps, stabilizes the vehicle through turns, and allows for controlled, confident braking.
Given Michigan's challenging road conditions, your suspension is constantly working hard. When it starts to wear down, both comfort and safety are compromised. At Dorian Ford, our certified technicians are experts in the specific dynamics of your vehicle's suspension. We restore the smooth ride and sharp handling you expect from your Ford, ensuring it performs safely and predictably.
Schedule Your Strut & Suspension ServiceSigns Your Suspension Needs Attention
A worn suspension isn't just uncomfortable; it's unsafe. Worn struts and shocks can increase your stopping distance by several feet and reduce your vehicle's stability in emergency maneuvers. Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these warning signs:
- A Bouncy or Floating Ride:
The vehicle continues to bounce up and down long after hitting a bump, creating an unstable, floating sensation. - "Nose Dives" When Braking:
The front end of your vehicle dips excessively when you apply the brakes. - Leaning or Rolling in Turns:
The vehicle feels unstable and sways or leans heavily when you go around a corner. - Uneven or Cupped Tire Wear:
Worn struts can cause your tires to bounce on the pavement, leading to unusual wear patterns and shortening tire life. - Visible Fluid Leaks:
You see oily fluid leaking from the body of your struts or shock absorbers. - Knocking or Clunking Noises:
You hear a distinct clunking sound when driving over bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces.
Our Comprehensive Suspension & Strut Service
We don't just replace parts; we ensure your entire suspension system is working in concert for a safe, controlled ride.
- Around the Wheel Inspection: Our technicians perform a comprehensive suspension inspection for all key components. This is a full suspension service that checks your struts, shocks, control arms, and ball joints. [Image of car suspension system diagram labeling strut, shock, control arm, and ball joint] Since we're already "around the wheel," we also visually inspect the components they work with, like your brake pads and rotors, to give you a complete picture of your wheel's health.
- Strut and Shock Absorber Replacement: We replace worn or leaking struts and shocks with high-quality, genuine Motorcraft® parts designed to restore your vehicle's original ride quality and handling characteristics.
- Professional Wheel Alignment: After replacing struts, a four-wheel alignment is absolutely essential. This service ensures your wheels are correctly angled to the road for optimal handling, safety, and to prevent premature tire wear.
- Related Component Service: We will identify and recommend the replacement of any other worn suspension or steering components to ensure a complete and lasting repair.
The Motorcraft® Advantage: Restoring Factory Handling
Your Ford’s suspension was precisely tuned by its engineers for a specific balance of comfort and handling. Using a generic aftermarket strut can disrupt this balance. A genuine Motorcraft® strut assembly provides:
- Engineered Damping Rates: Designed to match the exact weight, height, and performance characteristics of your Ford model.
- Restored Ride Quality: Returns your vehicle to the smooth, controlled ride it had when it was new.
- Guaranteed Fit and Quality: Ensures perfect installation and is built to Ford's high standards for durability and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between struts and shocks?
Both are designed to absorb bumps, but they have different roles. A shock absorber is a simple hydraulic damper. A strut is a major structural part of the suspension that also supports the weight of the vehicle and helps pivot the steering. Most modern cars use a strut assembly in the front and either a strut or a separate shock and spring in the rear.
[Image of difference between strut and shock absorber diagram]Does your suspension inspection include the brakes?
Absolutely. When we perform a thorough suspension inspection or service, we're already right there around the wheel. It only makes sense to also check your brake life, tire wear, and other nearby components. We look at how your struts, shocks, and brakes are all working together to ensure your complete safety.
How often should I replace my struts?
There's no universal replacement interval, as lifespan depends heavily on driving habits and road conditions. A good rule of thumb is to have your suspension professionally inspected every 50,000 miles to assess its condition.
Why is a wheel alignment so important after replacing struts?
Because the strut is a core part of the suspension's structure, removing and replacing it will always alter the existing alignment angles. Driving without a proper alignment afterward will cause poor handling, crooked steering, and will quickly destroy your tires.
Enjoy a Smoother, Safer Ride
Don't put up with a rough ride or compromised handling. Let the experts at Dorian Ford restore the comfort and control your vehicle was built to deliver.
Call (586) 840-1085 or click below to schedule your suspension inspection today!
Schedule Your Strut & Suspension Service