Content Wrapper

[Bex]

There was a recent post here on shocks, so I went out to check mine. My Tracker passes the 'bounce/compression' test, push it down by the wheel, just comes back up once, etc. But I looked under the car and one rear shock kind of dry and clean - the other is kind of oily and dirty. Does this mean it should be replaced? I'm ashamed to admit these are the original shocks. I would like to replace them if needed, and have been trying to learn about them on the internet. Ugh, I'm confused (and not a mechanic..I would like to get good shocks for my mechanic to put in, rather than relying on whatever kind of shock he would chose..I notice he has a tendency to put in cheap parts). Anyway, I see gas or oil shocks..which is better? (I would do rear shocks first). I don't do much off-roading, (although roads here are terrible) but would like something at least as good quality as original. Also, are Vitara shocks interchangeable with Tracker? I am in Europe, so no Trackers here. Are shocks specific to the year of my car? Anyone know of good website for buying shocks? Any info/lesson, etc greatly appreciated. And (sorry for this one)...what is a strut? Do I only have shocks in the rear and struts in the front? Thanks!