Dear Tom and Ray:

I've got a simple question. Why do struts have to be replaced in pairs? I have a '93 Cavalier that had new struts put on a year ago after getting hit while parked. The same thing happened this year, and the left front strut was bent. My mechanic said he could only replace the struts in pairs, even though the right one wasn't damaged. I'm looking for an answer before I present the bill to the person who hit me, in case he questions it. -- Denise

Ray: Well, Denise, there's no technical reason why you have to replace them two at a time. The problem is, the mechanic may only be able to buy them two at a time.

Tom: I don't know about all companies, but Monroe, for instance, sells most of its struts and shocks in pairs only now. So your mechanic may just be passing along this inconvenience to you.

Ray: In most cases, people are replacing struts because they're worn out, not because of an accident. And since they tend to be installed in pairs, they usually wear out about the same time. That's why they're usually replaced in pairs.

Tom: But I wouldn't worry about explaining that to the guy who hit you. I think he's more likely to question the new upholstery, the four new alloy wheels, and the new Bose sound system.

Which is cheaper, buying or leasing? Should you keep a car forever or dump it after three years, before trouble starts? Find out in Tom and Ray's pamphlet "Should I Buy, Lease, or Steal My Next Car?" To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.

© 1998 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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