Front Struts and Rear Shocks / Coil Springs / Trailing Arm Kit

What Are Front Struts, Rear Shocks, Coil Springs & Trailing Arm Kits?

A vehicle's suspension system is one of its most critical safety and performance systems, responsible for keeping the tires in contact with the road, absorbing road impacts, and maintaining precise steering control. Front struts, rear shocks, coil springs, and trailing arm kits are often bundled together because they work as a unified system — especially on vehicles where the rear suspension relies on a trailing arm design paired with coil springs and dedicated shock absorbers.

Front struts are a structural component of the suspension, combining the shock absorber function with a mounting point for the steering knuckle. Unlike a standalone shock absorber, a strut is a load-bearing element, meaning it directly influences wheel alignment, steering response, and ride height. When a strut wears out, you may notice excessive body roll, nose-dive under braking, or uneven tire wear — all signs that the front end needs attention.

Rear shocks, while not load-bearing in the same way as struts, are equally important. They control the oscillation of the rear axle or independent rear suspension, preventing the vehicle from bouncing excessively over bumps and keeping the tires planted under acceleration and cornering. On many rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive platforms, the rear suspension relies on a trailing arm design, where one or more arms extend rearward from the chassis to locate the wheel. A trailing arm kit provides the hardware — bushings, brackets, or complete arm assemblies — needed to restore proper geometry when worn or damaged components are replaced.

Coil springs work in tandem with both struts and shock absorbers to bear the vehicle's weight and determine ride height. Over time, springs can sag, crack, or lose their rated spring rate, leading to a lowered stance, increased body roll, and reduced handling precision. Replacing coil springs as part of a comprehensive suspension service ensures the new shocks and struts operate within their designed range of motion.

Why Replace These Components Together?

Suspension components wear at similar rates, and replacing only one part of the system often leaves worn partners behind. Pairing new front struts with fresh coil springs and rear shocks — along with a trailing arm kit where applicable — restores the vehicle's suspension geometry and damping characteristics to factory specifications simultaneously. This approach reduces labor costs over time and ensures a balanced, predictable ride quality from all four corners.

Top Brands for Front Struts, Rear Shocks, Coil Springs & Trailing Arm Kits

KYB Suspension is one of the world's largest manufacturers of shock absorbers and struts, renowned for engineering OE-quality and performance-upgrade damping solutions. KYB's products are built to restore factory ride and handling characteristics, making them a trusted choice for technicians and enthusiasts alike seeking reliable, long-lasting suspension components.

Sachs brings decades of European engineering expertise to suspension damping, supplying struts and shocks as original equipment to major global automakers. Sachs components are known for their precise valving and durable construction, making them an excellent choice for restoring suspension performance on European and domestic vehicles alike.