OUR SERVICES

Comprehensive Auto Brake Repair Services

We provide a full range of brake repair services to ensure your vehicle performs at its best. Our services include:

Anti-Lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) ensures your wheels keep rotating during braking, preventing skidding and providing better control. If your ABS light illuminates, visit Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc. for a diagnosis and professional brake repair.

Brake Fluid Flushes
Brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air over time, diminishing brake effectiveness and becoming corrosive, potentially harming the system. Regular brake fluid flushes are vital to ensure fresh fluid usage in your vehicle. Consult our technicians to determine the right time for a brake fluid flush.

Brake Hoses
A brake hose carries pressurized brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes. A damaged hose can lead to delayed or weak braking, and a leak may result in brake failure. While the need for a replacement brake hose isn't common, any signs of cracking or wear should prompt immediate replacement.

Brake Pad & Shoe Replacement
Squealing brakes often indicate brake pad issues. When brake pads deteriorate completely, a harsh metal-on-metal grinding noise occurs during braking, indicating potential rotor or drum damage. Although experienced individuals may attempt home repairs, if you have brake concerns, it's best to consult an auto repair professional promptly in order to receive the highest quality auto break repair.

Caliper Replacement
The brake caliper houses brake pads and clamps around the rotor to apply pressure during braking. Caliper problems can cause uneven braking, leading to skidding during braking and loss of control in adverse weather conditions. Contact Auto Doctor in Charlottesville at your earliest convenience for assistance.

Serving Nelson County and Surrounding Areas

At Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc., we proudly serve drivers in Nelson County and nearby communities with trusted brake repair services. Whether you need a routine brake fluid leak repair​ or emergency repairs, we're here to keep your vehicle safe and road-ready.

Auto Brake Repair FAQs

Learn about some of the common questions you may have:

Why are my brakes squeaking?

Noises coming from your brakes do not usually indicate a high-cost auto repair. It could be a foreign object such as a small stone or road debris. It could also be a signal that your brake-pads are wearing out and need replacing. As brake pads wear bits of metal in your brake pad come in contact with the rotor to create a squeaking noise when you apply the brakes.

Why are my brakes making a grinding noise?

Grinding noises usually indicate that your car's brake system is overdue for maintenance. The grinding sound is usually caused by the brake pad being completely worn away or the brake shoe scraping on metal contact points.

Why are my brakes vibrating?

If your car shakes or vibrates or wobbles when you apply the brakes, it indicates that the thickness of your rotor is uneven. Brake rotors are large, perfectly round, smooth metal discs that sit inside of the wheels. When the disc has become misshapen or unevenly worn it will vibrate or wobble when you hit the brakes. Left uneven, the material will continue to build on the uneven spots, making the problem worse over time.

Why are my brakes making a burning smell?

Overheated brakes cause a noticeable burning chemical smell. Pull over to a safe place and allow the brakes to cool. Ensure you did not accidentally leave the parking brake on. If there's any smoke coming from a wheel, it may be that the brake caliper is malfunctioning and locked in place. In this case, it may be unsafe to continue driving.

How to Repair a Sticking Brake Caliper?

A sticking brake caliper can cause uneven braking, poor fuel efficiency, or even serious damage if ignored. The repair typically involves inspecting the caliper slides and pins for corrosion, cleaning or replacing them as needed, and ensuring proper lubrication. In some cases, the entire caliper may need to be rebuilt or replaced-especially if the piston is seized or the rubber boot is torn.

While some experienced DIYers might attempt this at home, brake system repairs are best left to trained professionals to ensure your safety. If your brakes feel off or you suspect a caliper issue, contact Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc. so our technicians can take a look and get you safely back on the road.

Car and Truck Repair Services in Nelson County & Surrounding Area

At Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc., we deliver complete car and truck repair, including vital services like cabin and engine air filter replacement. These small but essential components protect your engine, improve air quality, and help your vehicle run efficiently in any condition.

Our team offers trusted preventative maintenance and full auto repair services to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance. We service all makes, models, and fuel systems with manufacturer-level precision.

Need to schedule a service? Call us at (434) 263-5665 today. We're happy to help with your next repair or filter replacement.

Our basic auto maintenance services include:

30/60/90K Mileage Maintenance
Most automakers recommend car maintenance at 30,000-mile intervals, adhering to the 30/60/90K mile schedule provided to car owners. Our team can keep you on track, preserving your vehicle's condition, optimizing its performance, and enhancing its resale value. The 30/60/90K service covers:

• Fluid replacements

• Oil and Filter changes

• Tire rotation, spin balance, and pressure adjustments

• Inspection of parts and systems - gears, tires, brake pads, belts, hoses, etc.

• With higher mileage: spark plugs, belts, timing belts when applicable

Belt Replacement
Fan belts (or drive belts) dry out and crack over time. If you hear squealing or see wear, contact us at 434-263-5665 for expert belt inspection and replacement using quality parts.

Check Engine Light Diagnostics
It could be a loose gas cap-or something serious like a failing catalytic converter. Schedule an appointment for quick code reading and diagnostics. At Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc., we can pull the code and diagnose the problem for you.

Factory Scheduled Maintenance
Automakers provide a service schedule for each vehicle. Our technicians follow this closely for all vehicles to ensure long-term performance.

Headlight and Bulb Replacement
If your bulbs are dim or out, it's time for a replacement. Our team installs high-quality bulbs to restore visibility and safety.

Hose Replacement
Cracked, dry hoses can leak coolant and cause overheating and prevent optimum performance. We inspect and replace worn hoses to keep your cooling system in top shape.

Oil, Lube & Filter Changes
Most vehicles need oil and filter changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. We provide full oil, lube, and filter service at Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc. to prevent wear and overheating.

Wiper Blade Replacement
If your blades streak or skip, it's time for new ones. We install quality wipers in minutes at Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc. for better road visibility during rain or snow. Give us a call at (434) 263-5665 for more information.

FAQs About Automobile Squeaks, Squeals and Rattles

Why is my car making a squealing noise?

It may be a slipping fan belt. Listen for a few warning signs such as a squeaking or chirping noise. Those noises are usually caused by misalignment of the belt and the pulley. If you call (434) 263-5665 we can set up an appointment with our professional auto repair technicians can realign it to stop the noise and fix it before your fan belt completely breaks.

Why does my car make a noise when I turn the steering wheel?

If your car makes strange sounds or clicks when you turn the steering wheel the most common cause is a low steering fluid. Over time the steering fluid decreases and air enters the steering mechanism causing unwanted noises. Come to Ragland's Auto Repair to top off your fluid reservoir with power steering fluid. The noises should start to go away immediately. If the sound returns quickly your car could be leaking steering fluid. Our professionals can help you diagnose and repair leaks quickly and affordably.

Leaking Fluid FAQs

Why is water leaking on my foot on the driver's side?

The most common cause is a blocked air conditioning drain hose. This is a simple repair at Ragland's Auto Repair. There are other possible causes of water dripping on your foot on the driver's side of the car including a broken door seal or leaking heat exchanger.

What should I do if my car creates a small oil leak on my driveway?

If the spill is still wet, cover the stain with clay cat litter, sand, cornmeal, cornstarch or baking soda. This will help absorb the oil before it soaks into the cement. Once the spill has dried, sweep up the absorbent material. Then, wash away the remaining stain with water and soap. A small oil leak on your driveway is an indication that something is wrong with your car. Schedule an appointment at Ragland's Auto Repair to get the problem diagnosed. Do not ignore an oil leak as it can seriously affect your car's engine.

Why is my car leaking a sweet-smelling fluid?

If there is a sweet-smelling fluid leaking from your car, the most likely culprit is leaking coolant or antifreeze. A coolant leak can become a serious problem. If your vehicle gets too low on coolant or antifreeze, it will overheat and may cause engine damage.

Reliable Electronic System & Diagnostic Services for Your Vehicle

Your vehicle's electronic systems are crucial for a seamless driving experience. Ensuring their correct functioning is vital to prevent inconvenience or compromised safety. At Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc., our experienced technicians not only repair electronic systems efficiently but also offer cutting-edge vehicle diagnostic services. Trust us for comprehensive solutions that ensure your vehicle runs smoothly from diagnosis to repair, providing peace of mind on the road.

Our electronic services include:

Check Engine Light
Seeing the "Check Engine" light on your dashboard can raise concerns, signaling anything from a minor issue like a loose gas cap to more serious problems such as a malfunctioning catalytic converter. At Ragland's Auto Repair, our skilled technicians can quickly read the diagnostic code and determine the exact cause of the alert. For prompt and precise problem resolution, don't hesitate to contact us at (434) 263-5665.

Our expert mechanics specialize in comprehensive diagnostics of all electronic components of your vehicle. For thorough and professional diagnostic services, consider Ragland's Auto Repair Inc. for your go-to solution.

Drivability
Drivability concerns the smoothness and stability of your vehicle's acceleration, monitored by onboard computers analyzing sensor data. If you notice any irregularities in your vehicle's performance, our technicians are equipped to diagnose and rectify any issues, ensuring optimal operation.

Engine Controls
The engine control system is crucial for managing your vehicle's exhaust emissions and optimizing fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance of this system is essential to leverage your vehicle's advanced capabilities. For any concerns regarding engine controls, schedule an appointment at Ragland's Auto Repair Inc. to ensure they are functioning perfectly.

Vehicle Computers
Modern vehicles incorporate sophisticated computers that manage essential functions like engine and transmission efficiency. These computers process data from various sensors to optimize settings for components such as spark plugs, idle speed, and fuel injectors. Regular checks and updates are crucial to ensure these computers function optimally. Should your vehicle's computer systems fail, immediate attention and possibly replacement are necessary to maintain performance and safety.

Auto Diagnostic FAQs

How do vehicle diagnostic systems work?

OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics and is a sophisticated computer that collects vital information from a network of sensors, monitoring engine performance, emissions, and other key functions. It not only regulates various car systems but also acts as a diagnostic tool, alerting you to potential problems before they become major issues.

How long does a car diagnostic last?

While a basic diagnostic test typically wraps up in 1-1.5 hours, complex issues demanding further examination and component access/testing can extend the process to 2-3 hours. The length ultimately depends on the severity of the problem and the potential presence of multiple underlying culprits.

What is included in a car diagnostic test?

Diagnostic tests are like X-rays for your vehicle, utilizing specialized equipment to scan its complex systems and components like the engine, transmission, and throttle. From minor oil tank issues to intricate electrical glitches, these tests diagnose a wide range of potential problems. However, interpreting the data they generate requires trained professionals, making dealer shops and skilled mechanics your best bet for accurate diagnoses.

Whether you have a car that's been sitting a little too long or a fleet that needs a basic check, Ragland's Auto Repair Inc. can get your vehicle back on the road quickly.

To schedule an appointment or find out more about what we can do for your vehicle, contact us at (434) 263-5665.

Our expert auto repair services include:

General Repair
Your car, regardless of how cautiously you drive, will inevitably require some general repairs. These could range from engine diagnostics to brake services, and alignment adjustments to electronic repairs. For top-notch maintenance of your domestic vehicle, get in touch with us. Our team is well-equipped to handle the complexities of various domestic vehicle models.

Warning Lights FAQs

Why does my car keep saying the coolant level is low?

If a low coolant warning light is on do not continue to drive and go directly to the auto repair shop. It is simple and often inexpensive to fix at Ragland's Auto Repair. Waiting to get the problem resolved can result in high-cost engine repairs. If the low coolant warning light continues to flash on, then there is a leak in the car's cooling system. Coolant fluid can leak in several ways. First, external leaks from radiator hoses, second, connections between hoses, or lastly, from the radiator itself.

Why Is My Car's ABS Light On?

An Anti-Lock Braking System or ABS warning light on your dash indicates something in your car's ABS needs to be checked out by a qualified mechanic. Your ABS is one of your most important safety systems. Do not ignore this warning light. Common issues are:

1. Malfunctioning ABS module

2. Low levels in the brake fluid reservoir

3. Broken speed sensor

4. The ABS system is not receiving power

How do I fix a persistent traction control warning light?

Normally, when the traction control light comes on while driving it indicates the car's traction control lost grip or traction going around a sharp curve or while driving on wet pavement. However, sometimes the traction control warning light will come on and stay on.

The best way to determine whether it was just a fluke or a real issue is to shut your vehicle off and turn it back on. If the light is off, then it was likely a temporary malfunction.

Why is my throttle control warning light on?

The connection between the gas pedal and acceleration is controlled by your car's throttle. The amount of acceleration or throttle control is governed by a sophisticated computer system. Any disruption of the electrical signals will affect your vehicle's acceleration and cause the throttle control warning light to come on. If your throttle control light comes on call (434) 263-5665 to schedule an appointment.

What are the main problems that cause a throttle control warning light to come on?

The five main issues are:

• Irregular or dangerous unintended acceleration

• Intermittent loss of throttle control

• Sudden drop in fuel economy

• Hesitation or stumbling when accelerating.

• Engine stuck unable to accelerate beyond a fast idle.

Can I drive with the throttle control light on?

No, unwanted acceleration may occur and cause an accident. There can be many different causes for the throttle control warning light, many are simple fixes.  Call Ragland's Auto Repair at (434) 263-5665 to schedule a time with us to tow your vehicle to the shop for repair.

To learn more about our General Re

Starters and Ignition Repair For Cars and Trucks

Starters and Ignition Repairs
If your engine has a starter that struggles to turn over, it may be due to the intense engine compression ratio. Standard OEM starters might not meet the demands of high-performance vehicles, which require more cranking power. Consider upgrading to a high torque starter and ignition system for that extra boost. These starters are smaller and lighter, offering better clearance and reliability whether on the track or in your driveway. Let Ragland's Auto Repair enhance your vehicle's start-up with a high-amp battery and a high-torque mini starter.

Ignition Repair FAQs

What are the common signs that my ignition needs repair?

Customers often inquire about what symptoms indicate a problem with the ignition system. Common signs include the car failing to start, the key not turning in the ignition, unexpected stalling of the vehicle, and the engine not cranking despite turning the key. These symptoms suggest issues with the ignition switch, the starter motor, or other related components.

How much does it typically cost to repair an ignition system?

The cost of ignition repair can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the vehicle make and model. Generally, costs can range from a simple repair of a few hundred dollars to more extensive replacements that could exceed a thousand dollars. Customers are advised to get a detailed diagnostic to understand the precise problem and associated costs.

How long does an ignition repair take?

The duration of an ignition repair can depend on the complexity of the issue and the availability of any necessary parts. Typically, simple repairs might take a few hours, while more complex issues that require part replacements can take a full day or longer. It's best for customers to consult with their service provider for a more accurate time estimate based on their vehicle's condition.

The Importance of Regular Oil Changes For Engine Health

At Ragland's Auto Repair, Inc. we know that regular oil changes are one of the most important-and easiest-ways to keep your engine running strong. Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate engine temperature. Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt and debris, making it less effective.

Without timely oil changes, your engine can suffer from excess wear, reduced performance, and even costly damage. Staying on top of this routine service keeps your car running smoothly and helps prevent bigger problems down the road.

Get Maximum Performance From Your Car
At Ragland's Auto Repair, we tailor our oil filter selection based on your vehicle's needs and your driving habits. Whether you require conventional, blended, or fully synthetic oil for everyday driving we have the right solution for you.

Full-Service Oil Change in Nelson County.

When you need to service your vehicle, regardless of its make or model, get your service performed at Ragland's Auto Repair! Our service team can't wait to assist you!

Oil Change Benefits

By staying up to date on oil changes and routine maintenance, you can ensure peace of mind that your vehicle will run smoothly during its lifespan. Though every vehicle is different, the typical oil change intervals are between 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil.

If you often drive in tough conditions or take your vehicle off-road, it's a good idea to schedule oil changes a bit sooner than usual. Main benefits of staying up to date with oil changes include:

1. Engine parts stay lubricated

2. Improved Engine Efficiency

3. Removes Dirt and Debris

4. Extended Engine Life

Delaying your oil change might seem harmless, but it can lead to serious engine trouble. As oil breaks down over time, it loses its ability to protect and lubricate your engine properly. Bring your vehicle to our certified technicians-we'll make sure it gets the expert care it needs to keep running at its best.

Oil Change FAQs

How long does an oil change take?

An oil change typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your vehicle and whether additional services are performed during the visit.

How often should oil be changed?

Most vehicles need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil. Always check your owner's manual for your specific recommendation.

What will happen if I never change my vehicle's oil?

If you never change your oil, it will become dirty and lose its ability to lubricate, leading to engine overheating, internal damage, or total engine failure over time. Regular oil changes are essential for engine health and longevity.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

Tires are one of the most important safety components of any vehicle. They are your car's only point of contact with the road, meaning all safety systems-like antilock brakes and stability control-depend on proper tire performance. Without regular tire maintenance, your tires may lose traction, compromise braking power, and put your safety at risk.

Understanding Your Tire Maintenance Schedule

No tire lasts forever. Even with advances in tread technology, factors like vehicle type, driving habits, and road conditions can shorten a tire's lifespan. That's why it's important to follow a consistent tire maintenance schedule based on your owner's manual or advice from certified mechanics. Keeping up with tire rotations, pressure checks, and tread inspections can significantly extend your tire's life and keep your ride safe and smooth.

Don't Ignore the Tire Maintenance Light

When the tire maintenance light appears on your dashboard, it's not something to brush off. It could indicate low tire pressure, uneven tread wear, or an overdue inspection. Addressing this early can prevent costly repairs or dangerous blowouts. If you're unsure why the light is on, setup an appointment at (434) 263-5665 and we'll get your tire health back on track.

We offer the following services to help you prolong the life of your tires:

Tire Balancing
If your steering wheel shakes or your ride feels rough, your tires may be out of balance. Our techs use precision equipment to evenly distribute weight and eliminate vibration, ensuring a smoother and safer ride. Call us at (434) 263-5665 if you have questions, or so we can evaluate your tires.

Tire Inspection
Tires should be inspected regularly-ideally during oil changes or tire rotations. We check for tread wear, cracks, bulges, punctures, or foreign objects that could cause failure. Even small imperfections can evolve into dangerous situations.

Tire Repairs
Our tire experts inspect your tires to determine if they can be safely repaired or need replacing. We follow strict safety standards-if the tire can be plugged and patched properly, our certified technicians will handle the repair to get you safely back on the road. For punctures or sidewall damage beyond repair, we'll recommend the right replacement option.

Tire Rotation
Tire rotation evens out wear across all four tires, maximizing their lifespan and helping you avoid premature replacements. Generally, tire rotation should be done every 5,000 miles. We can help set up a schedule tailored to your vehicle and driving habits.

We Carry Top Tire Brands
Tire quality matters. That's why we carry trusted major brands built for performance, longevity, and safety. Whether you drive a compact car or manage a fleet, we'll help you choose the best tires for your needs.

Wheel Alignment Services
A proper wheel alignment adjusts your suspension and steering geometry to factory specs, ensuring even tire wear, better handling, and increased fuel efficiency. Misalignments can occur over time or after hitting potholes and curbs. For expert alignment services, schedule a visit with us.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

When it's time for new tires, choose ones that perform well in braking, handling, and wet conditions.  The team can help you pick the right tires and create a tire maintenance schedule to match your driving needs.

We offer most major brands of tires, such as Goodyear, Cooper Tires, Pirelli, Hankook, Continental, Kelly Tires, Falken, General Tires, Uniroyal and that is only naming a few we have many more brands available. 

Tire Maintenance Related FAQs

Is it okay to mix tire brands on a car?

Sometimes mixing brands and models on your car is unavoidable, but having a complete matching set is best. If possible, use the same tire on the front or rear wheels. While it's not usually advised, you can mix different tire brands on the same car, if you follow a few simple guidelines.

Those include: never mix winter tires with all-season or summer tires; and to not mix run-flat tires with non-run-flat tires. For guidelines in the, give us a call at (434) 263-5665.

What are the benefits of rotating my tires?

Tire rotation ensures even wear, extending the life of your tires and promoting a smoother, more balanced ride. It also improves handling and reduces the risk of uneven traction.

At what mileage should I rotate my tires?

Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires every 5,000-7,500 miles. However, this can vary depending on your vehicle's drivetrain and driving style. Let us help determine the ideal rotation schedule.

Does my tire warranty influence my rotation schedule?

Tire manufacturers know that tire rotation is important for even tread wear. Tire mileage warranties are most often set by the manufacturers with tire rotations included. Failing to rotate your tires may void your tires manufacture warranty.

How does snow tire usage influence rotation decisions?

If you have snow tires check your tire pressure and rotate your winter tires on a regular schedule. Rotating snow and winter tires is important to maintaining even treadwear and preserving maximum traction in icy conditions.

Undercar Repairs

Our comprehensive undercarriage inspections and services address this vital but often overlooked area of your vehicle, affording it the care and attention it deserves.

Alignment
Wheel alignment consists of essential car maintenance that involves adjusting the wheel angles to follow the manufacturer's specifications. This process ensures that the suspension and steering systems operate at their intended angles, thereby reducing tire wear.

Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-lock brakes are designed to prevent wheel lock-up during rapid deceleration by automatically modulating brake pressure during emergency stops. This system allows wheels to maintain traction with the road while braking.

Brake System Flush
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture. This moisture absorption lowers the fluid's boiling point and can lead to corrosion of the lines and cylinders. In extreme cases, the brake fluid could boil during heavy braking, resulting in a loss of braking capability. To counteract the effects of moisture absorption, auto manufacturers recommend periodic brake system flushes.

Brakes
Brakes are mechanical devices designed to slow down or halt a vehicle, primarily through the use of friction. In essence, brakes impede your vehicle's motion, allowing you to stop whenever and wherever necessary. Brakes rank among the most critical vehicle components, and without them, you would be unable to bring your vehicle to a stop.

Chassis
The chassis serves as the internal framework of your vehicle, providing support for various components such as the wheels, engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and suspension. A weakened or damaged chassis can lead to a weaker vehicle overall.

Differential Flush
The differential is a critical vehicle component that compensates for variations in travel distance between the inner and outer wheels during turns. Typically located at the rear and under non-four-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, differentials often do not receive the same level of attention as engines. However, it is essential to understand that differential failure equates to vehicle failure.

Differentials
Differentials serve as the components responsible for transmitting engine power to the wheels. A key function of the differential is to distribute power to the wheels while permitting them to rotate at varying speeds, thus earning its name.

Driveline
The driveline represents a vehicle section that connects the engine and transmission to the wheel axles. This component consists of powertrain parts excluding the engine and transmission. A driveline failure translates to an immobilized vehicle, as energy cannot be transmitted from the engine to the wheel axles.

Exhaust
In motor vehicles, an exhaust system consists of piping designed to guide exhaust fumes from the engine to the vehicle's rear. A well-functioning exhaust system not only sounds better but also benefits you, your vehicle, and the environment. 

Shock Absorbers
Shocks, or shock absorbers, are mechanical devices engineered to smooth out rough road surfaces. They achieve this by converting kinetic energy into another form of energy. Properly functioning shocks minimize the impact of traveling over uneven terrain, leading to an improved ride quality and enhanced vehicle handling.

Struts
Much like shock absorbers (shocks), struts serve to dampen the effects of road surfaces as you drive. By absorbing road shocks, struts enable passengers to experience a smoother ride. Struts differ from shocks in that they provide structural support for your vehicle's suspension.

Tires
As tires age, they lose traction and degrade internally, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. Such blowouts can lead to sudden loss of vehicle control. Maintaining good tire condition is crucial for vehicle performance and safety. For all your tire-related needs, don't hesitate to contact Ragland's Auto Repair at (434) 263-5665 today.

Suspension FAQs

How often should shocks be replaced?

Experts recommend that shocks be replaced at 50,000-100,000 miles. If you are a more aggressive driver or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster. Shocks don't go out all at once, they deteriorate slowly over time. If you are noticing problems with handling, making smooth turns or ride smoothness have one of the professionals at Ragland's Auto Repair inspect your shocks.

Are struts difficult to replace?

Replacing struts is simple and fast for a professional. Replacing your front struts yourself is not recommended, especially if you need a new complete strut assembly kit. When you get your truck's struts replaced you also need to have the front-end alignment checked. Ask the professionals at Ragland's Auto Repair to replace your struts and we will complete the work quickly and easily.

What is the difference between shocks and struts?

Shocks and struts are both parts of a vehicle's suspension system. However, each has a very specific job. Your vehicle has either shocks or struts. You cannot replace your shocks with struts and vice versa. Shock absorbers are hydraulic components that help minimize movement generated by the vehicle's springs. These springs absorb some of the jolts you might feel from uneven or damaged roads. Struts are structural components of certain vehicles' steering and suspension systems. They usually consist of a spring and a shock absorber. Struts are designed to be much stronger than shocks since they are designed for vehicles that carry heavy loads.

Is it necessary to get an alignment after strut replacement?

Ragland's Auto Repair recommends performing an alignment anytime shocks, struts or other steering and suspension components are replaced. Getting your vehicle's alignment within factory specifications ensures optimal tire wear and helps prolong the life of your tires.

What happens if I only replace one strut or shock?

If you replace only one shock or strut, it will create poor handling when changing lanes or driving over bumps. If your car is new, replacing only one strut or shock absorber may be ok since the opposite side shock is not worn out yet. Generally, Ragland's Auto Repair recommends replacing both shocks or struts.