A strut is a structural component that combines the shock absorber with other suspension components such as coil springs and steering knuckles into a compact unit. Unlike shock absorbers, struts have a reinforced body and rod.
Struts carry multi-directional loads, while shock absorbers only dampen vibrations and receive loads only along their axis.
Struts and shock absorbers are attached differently. Shock absorbers are mounted to the frame and suspension via rubber or polyurethane bushings. Struts are hard mounted to the suspension and to the frame via a swivel plate, which provides the upper pivot point for the steering.
