Shocks & Struts for Scion tC
The Scion tC is a sporty, compact car that was produced by Toyota from 2004 to 2016, offering a sporty feel and a convenient, reliable ride. The tCs sporty ride is supported by its shocks and struts, and there are a number of racing and performance options available to further enhance the Scion tC. Whether your Scions suspension is aging or youre looking for a sharp performance upgrade, there are a range of shocks and struts available for this sporty coupe.
What is the difference between shocks, struts, and springs?
Shocks, struts, and springs are all part of the suspension system of a passenger car like the Scion tC. They help to cushion the ride of the Scion and protect it from damaging clanking and bouncing when riding over rough roads, uneven pavement, potholes, and other roadway obstacles. This system is an important part not only of enjoying a comfortable ride without excessive jostling and bumping but also of protecting its components against damage.
- Shock absorbers: Shocks are made to keep the vehicle from bouncing excessively when driving over potholes, bumps, or uneven pavement. They use a piston and hydraulic fluid to absorb the power of the shocks picked up on the roadway by your vehicle. These devices are always replaced in pairs, and they keep the tC from diving when starting or bouncing up and down when encountering a pothole.
- Struts: These are different from shocks, even though they serve the same function in many ways. They are combined with coil springs and are structurally part of the suspension, managing its response to the ground.
- Springs: These coils are made of strong steel and are durable and mounted to the chassis. They are combined as part of the struts or paired with shocks to manage movement along the ground.
When does the Scion tC need replacement shocks and struts?
Because they not only keep your Scion tC comfortable but also protect your car from damage, its important to have your Scion inspected every 50,000 miles or so to ensure that your suspension system is functioning properly. This inspection can help to determine if you need to replace all of the Scion tCs shocks and struts or only one pair. However, there are also some signs and signals that you encounter on the road that can indicate that your system needs repair.
- Bouncing while driving: If you are experiencing excessive bouncing and squeaking when hitting a pothole or bumpy road, your parts may need to be replaced.
- Tire cupping: This term refers to spotty, patchy wear on your Scion tCs tires. When you drive with worn-out parts, the vehicle bounces up and down and cups the tire, scraping off pieces of tread unevenly and at random intervals. This kind of tire wear indicates a need for shock or strut replacement.
- Dipping and diving: If your Scion lurches down when braking or dips backward when accelerating, this can indicate that the front or rear shocks or struts are worn out.
- Fluid leaking: If you see an oily, wet appearance on these pieces, that could mean a hydraulic fluid leak in the system.