Should you replace a damaged strut bump stop

Learn whether it’s worth it to replace a damaged bump stop

A strut bump stop, also known as a jounce bumper, is an integral component of a vehicle’s suspension system. It is designed to prevent the strut from fully compressing and bottoming out during severe impacts, such as when driving over large bumps or potholes.

Why shocks and struts need a bump stop

In an extreme compression event where the spring is fully compressed, the shock or strut mount can damage the shock or strut body with high force. So, the bump stop acts as a cushioning device to prevent metal-to-metal contact.

Rapid full compression can damage the shock or strut body and the internal shock or strut valves. The bump stops prevent that valve damage.

Where it’s located?

You never really see the stop on a strut because it’s inside the dust boot at the top of the strut.

Bump stops deteriorate over time

Because they’re made to absorb and cushion metal-to-metal impacts, bump stops can be damaged over time, especially if you drive with worn-out springs that cause the vehicle to bottom out.

Deteriorated bump stop on strut

Can bump stops be replaced?

Bump stops are inexpensive and can be replaced. However, a worn bump

Deteriorated bump stop on shock

stop is a symptom of a worn spring and strut/shock. So, replacing the bump stop doesn’t make much sense when you really should be replacing the entire shock or strut.

Replacing a bump stop requires the removal of the shock or strut from the vehicle. The strut must be fully disassembled in order to access the bump stop. At that point, you’ve incurred the same amount of labor as it would take to replace the strut with a new unit. The same applies to replacing a bump stop on a shock.

©, 2023 Rick Muscoplat