Parts for your 2017 Ford Fiesta-Struts

Maintaining and Replacing Struts on Your 2017 Ford Fiesta

When it comes to maintaining your 2017 Ford Fiesta, one of the important components to keep an eye on is the strut assembly. The struts in your vehicle play a key role in providing stability and ensuring a smooth ride. They are part of the suspension system, which is responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle, absorbing road shocks, and maintaining tyre contact with the road. Let's delve into how you can maintain or replace the struts on your Fiesta to keep it running in top shape.

Firstly, it's important to understand what struts are and their function. Struts are integrated structural components of your suspension system that combine a dampening device, similar to a shock absorber, with the ability to support the weight of the vehicle. This design is compact, allowing for more interior space within the vehicle. The strut assembly usually consists of a coil spring to absorb large bumps, a shock absorber to dampen vibrations, and a strut bearing to support the strut assembly when turning the vehicle.

• Listen for unusual noises: Knocking or clunking sounds when driving over bumps can indicate that your struts might be worn or damaged.
• Check the ride quality: If you notice that your Fiesta bounces excessively, it could be a sign that the struts are not effectively absorbing shocks.
• Observe tyre wear: Uneven or rapid tyre wear can result from strut issues, affecting wheel alignment.
• Inspect for leaks: Hydraulic fluid leakage from the strut body is a clear sign the strut needs replacing.

Regular inspections of your struts should be part of your scheduled vehicle maintenance. You may not always notice the signs of strut deterioration, as they can wear out gradually. Typically, struts should be checked every 20,000 kilometres, and depending on usage and conditions, they might need to be replaced around every 80,000 kilometres. However, the road conditions you frequently encounter and your personal driving habits can influence this timeline.

When it comes time to replace your struts, it's advisable to replace them in pairs either at the front or rear. This approach ensures balanced handling, which is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient operation of your vehicle. During a replacement, you or your mechanic will need to compress the coil springs on the struts, detach the old struts, and install the new ones. If you are undertaking this task yourself, exercise caution and make sure to use the correct tools, as the compressed springs can be hazardous.

After new struts are installed, it might be necessary to get a wheel alignment. Even small changes in your suspension can affect alignment, leading to uneven tyre wear or pulling to one side while driving. A proper alignment ensures that your tyres perform optimally and last longer.

Not only does replacing struts improve the ride quality, but it also contributes to the vehicle's overall safety by maintaining proper braking performance and minimising roll during corners. As you drive, you'll likely notice a more comfortable and stable ride, making your Fiesta feel almost like new again.

If you are unsure about the condition of your struts, don't hesitate to consult with a professional mechanic. They can provide expert insights and help you decide whether repair or replacement is necessary, ensuring your vehicle remains in tip-top shape.

Your 2017 Ford Fiesta is known for its compact efficiency and agile handling. Keeping the struts well-maintained will not only ensure you experience the optimal performance that this vehicle is known for but will also provide peace of mind as you hit the road for daily commutes or weekend excursions.