Auto mechanic trying to rip me off again?

[Phokus]

Hey guys,

Question, i recently replaced the front 2 tires at Sears Auto because i blew a hole in one of them (hit a curb) and they were pushing a few things on me, including extended warranties on tires, blah blah blah. One of the mechanics said i needed to replace the struts of the car (i don't even know what that is) or else the tires might get damaged. I've driven this car for about 3 thousand miles (bought it used, had like 35k miles on it) and i haven't seen any problems with the tires. Do you guys think i might of damaged the 'struts' when i hit that curve, or are they just blowing smoke?

 

[BG4533]

Why don't you take it somewhere else and get a second opinion? Probably shouldnt mention the struts.

 

[Phokus]

Originally posted by: BG4533
Why don't you take it somewhere else and get a second opinion? Probably shouldnt mention the struts.

I have no time

BTW, what the heck are struts?

 

[mastertech01]

Its called upsales and they all do it. With 38000 miles it shouldnt need struts already unless you did indeed do damage to one. A front end alignment may definitely be in order depending on the severity which you hit the curb. Did you bend a rim?

Its a tough call from the internet to see the damage they can see. But dont be surprized if those hungry techs are just making an upsell, its part of thier business. Some have more integrity than others.

Struts are the shocks with built in coil springs into one assembly.

 

[zixxer]

fyi. sears is a RIPOFF. I would NEVER EVER take my car there. I used to work at sears, and saw first hand how they work. no thanks

 

[Ronstang]

MacPherson struts to be exact. They are a combination of the shock absorber/upper suspension articulation. A newer car with 38K miles probably does not need struts. Newer car's struts should last at least twice that mileage but as always it depends upon usage. Have it checked by someone else to get a better idea.

 

[Ornery]

Two possibilities. One is the combination spring/shock absorber units. The other is a bar that runs from the 'A' arm to the frame... uh, not sure what a comparable part on a unibody would attach to.

 

[Phokus]

Thanks for the info guys!