Parts for your 2019 Volkswagen Amarok-Struts

Understanding Struts on the 2019 Volkswagen Amarok

The 2019 Volkswagen Amarok is a tough ute built to handle a variety of driving conditions, from city streets to off-road adventures. When it comes to its suspension setup, many owners and enthusiasts are curious about the role of struts. So, does the Amarok actually use struts in its suspension system? The answer is no, not in the typical sense you might expect.

The Amarok, especially the 2019 model, is equipped with a more traditional suspension configuration. Up front, it uses a double wishbone suspension setup complemented by coil springs and shock absorbers. At the rear, it features leaf springs with shock absorbers. In this layout, while you have shock absorbers, you won't find struts in the way you might on many passenger cars or smaller SUVs. This is particularly common for utility vehicles like the Amarok which are designed for load carrying and off-road capabilities.

Why doesn't the Amarok use struts? Struts are a type of suspension component that combines a shock absorber and a structural part of the suspension into one unit. They often serve both as a damper and as a part that supports the vehicle's weight and alignment. Many passenger cars and crossovers use struts because they save space and simplify the suspension. However, struts are not as common in larger, body-on-frame vehicles and utes like the Amarok. These vehicles favour separate shock absorbers and coil or leaf springs because this setup offers greater durability, load-bearing capacity, and easier maintenance when carrying heavy loads or towing. The leaf springs and shock absorbers at the rear in particular give a balance of comfort and robustness for work-related tasks and off-road use.

So for the 2019 Volkswagen Amarok, struts are simply not part of the suspension equation. Instead, the suspension leans on shock absorbers and springs to do the work. This design choice aligns with the Amarok's focus on utility and ruggedness rather than compactness or sporty handling which is where struts shine.

Now, even though struts are not fitted to the Amarok, the shock absorbers carry out a similar role in providing damping and ride comfort. This makes maintaining the shocks crucial for the vehicle's performance and safety. Owners should keep an eye on their shock absorbers during servicing because worn shocks will negatively impact handling, braking, and ride comfort.

Being aware of when to replace or service the suspension components on the Amarok is key. Signs that shocks might need attention include excessive bouncing after hitting bumps, fluid leaks, uneven tyre wear, or a generally harsh or unstable ride. Servicing these components generally involves inspecting for leaks, testing suspension travel, and ensuring the mounts and bushings are still in good condition.

Choosing quality replacement shock absorbers is important. Genuine or high-quality aftermarket shocks can restore the smooth ride and stability that the Amarok is known for. It's also worth noting that shock absorbers degrade over time depending on use, so regular checks during routine servicing - usually every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres - is a good practice. Off-road use or heavy loads might demand more frequent inspections.

Although struts are not used on the 2019 Amarok, understanding how the shock absorbers and springs work together will help owners appreciate the suspension and keep the vehicle running at its best. Proper maintenance of these parts not only extends their life but also ensures safer driving conditions and better handling whether on the bitumen or out in the bush.