Parts for your 2014 Ford Falcon-Struts

Maintaining and Replacing Struts on Your 2014 Ford Falcon

The 2014 Ford Falcon is known for its robust performance and comfortable ride, largely thanks to its sophisticated suspension system which includes struts. If you own this remarkable vehicle, keeping the struts in excellent condition is essential for maintaining its ride quality and handling. This guide will walk you through the basics of strut maintenance and replacement, ensuring your Falcon remains as smooth and agile as ever.

Struts play a pivotal role in absorbing shocks from the road and supporting your vehicle's weight. Over time, these components can wear out due to normal driving conditions, leading to a less comfortable and less controlled drive. To keep your 2014 Ford Falcon performing at its best, regular inspection and timely replacement of the struts are crucial.

Here's a practical guide to understanding when and how to replace the struts on your Falcon:

• Recognising Wear and Tear: Look out for signs such as unusual noises from the suspension, excessive bouncing or swaying, uneven tyre wear, and a noticeable decline in ride comfort. These are indicators that your struts may be reaching the end of their service life.
• Replacement Timing: As a rule of thumb, struts generally need replacing every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres, but this can vary based on driving conditions and habits. If you frequently drive on rough roads or carry heavy loads, more regular inspections are advisable.

When it comes to replacing the struts, here are some steps and tips to make it hassle-free:

1. Plan the Replacement: Ensure you have the proper tools, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, and potentially a spring compressor. If the process seems daunting, consider consulting a professional.
2. Safety First: Always work on a flat surface and securely raise your vehicle with a jack and jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Remove the Old Struts: Loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheel. Then, detach the strut from the steering knuckle and the strut tower under the bonnet, making sure to keep any spacers or mounting hardware for reuse.
4. Install the New Struts: Carefully position the new strut into the strut tower and secure it. Once aligned correctly, reattach it to the steering knuckle and double-check all connections to ensure they're torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
5. Final Checks: Once the strut is in place, it's crucial to get a professional alignment to ensure even tyre wear and optimal handling. A misalignment can lead to rapid tyre degradation and poor vehicle control.

Aside from replacements, routine maintenance is key. Regularly check the condition of the struts and the surrounding suspension components. Keeping your tyres properly inflated and aligned will also help reduce stress on the struts.

It's also worth investing in high-quality struts when replacements are needed. While it might be tempting to save a few bucks with low-cost options, premium struts usually offer better durability and performance, providing a long-lasting solution that benefits your drive quality.

Regular servicing of your 2014 Ford Falcon, including checking the struts, not only enhances your comfort but also adds to the safety of your driving experience. Handling unexpected road conditions becomes much easier when your suspension system is at its best, making your travels more pleasant and secure.

Ultimately, keeping your struts in top shape ensures that your Ford Falcon remains reliable and spry on the road. Routine checks, attentive maintenance, and timely replacements will go a long way in maintaining the exceptional performance that makes driving the Falcon a joy.