Parts for your 2016 Ford Ranger-Struts

Understanding Struts in Your 2016 Ford Ranger

If you've been taking your 2016 Ford Ranger in for regular check-ups or you've decided to roll up your sleeves and handle a bit of maintenance yourself, then you would want to understand what makes up the suspension system of your vehicle. When examining your Ranger, you might come to wonder whether struts play a role in its smooth ride and safe handling. While struts are a common component in many vehicles, your Ranger skips them in favour of shock absorbers. That said, you still might hear some conversation about struts when talking about other vehicles, so let's dive into what these components are and why they're not part of your trusty Ford Ranger.

Struts are a crucial part of the suspension system for many vehicles, working closely with shock absorbers to keep your ride smooth and your tyres in constant contact with the road. They're typically combined with a coil spring into one assembly, which saves space and adds to the vehicle's front-end structure. They are often used in the front suspension of a car, especially in passenger vehicles. The absence of struts in the 2016 Ford Ranger doesn't mean less performance, it just means the designers have used a different approach to achieve great handling and comfort.

While your Ranger doesn't utilise struts, shock absorbers fulfil a similar role in helping to control the impact and rebound movement on your springs and suspension. They're an essential element in maintaining the dynamics of your truck, especially when you're off-roading or carrying a load. So, instead of focusing on struts, when it comes to your Ranger, we'll focus a bit on the maintenance of these crucial shock absorbers.

Maintaining your shock absorbers is vital to the longevity and safety of your vehicle. Here's a list of tips to help you ensure your Ranger rides smoothly:

• Regular Inspections: Just like you would with a routine doctor's check-up, keeping an eye on your shock absorbers can go a long way. Look for visible damage like dents or leaks, and pay attention to how your vehicle handles. If it bounces more than usual over bumps or feels unstable, it could be a sign of worn shocks.
• Listen and Feel: Pay attention to how your Ranger communicates with you. Odd noises like clunking or squeaking when you hit a bump are often tell-tale signs that something might be up with the suspension. Additionally, if your Ranger feels like it's dipping or diving when you brake, that could mean your shocks need some attention.
• Routine Replacement: While shocks typically last a good 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers, this greatly depends on how and where you drive. Regular inspections can help indicate when a replacement is due but sticking to a routine maintenance schedule is always a wise choice.
• Check Your Tyres: Your tyres can say a lot about your suspension health. Uneven tyre wear is often an indicator that something might be amiss with your shock absorbers. Keeping your tyres properly inflated and aligned also helps extend the lifespan of both your tyres and shocks.
• Professional Servicing: While a do-it-yourself approach can save you money, never underestimate the value of taking your Ranger to a professional. They can perform a more comprehensive check and have the tools to ensure everything is secured and performing optimally.

Ensuring a comfortable, safe ride should be a top priority for any vehicle owner. Even though your 2016 Ford Ranger doesn't use struts, giving some love to your shock absorbers will help keep you rolling smoothly down the road. Whether your thrill comes from off-road trails or the daily drive to work, being proactive about suspension maintenance means you can continue enjoying all that your Ranger has to offer.