Is driving with a bad strut dangerous?

Asked by hdea050112 Oct 12, 2017 at 11:50 AM about the 2004 Toyota Camry LE FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I was told I have a very bad strut and also a bad wheel bearing. I can't afford
the repair right now. Is it ok to drive?

3 Answers

101,745

"Very bad" as in "worn", or as in "broken"? A broken spring or bushing/mount can cause damage if it contacts tire or brakes. If it's a blown seal then you basically have a spring with no shock absorber. Either case your car's handling is going to be affected. In the latter case it can be driven short distances or at low speeds, but if it's broken that corner of the vehicle is no longer supported. The wheel bearing is another major concern, a wheel with a bad bearing can lock up and cause serious handling issues. I strongly suggest you do not drive it until repairs are made. You should also know that this type of repairs are cheapest at a good local neighborhood mechanic, avoid the dealer or those overpriced chain stores. Talk to people about a recommended mechanic. You may even look for a mobile mechanic that can do the repairs in your driveway or garage to avoid towing fees (try Craigslist).

3 people found this helpful.
21,440

KenF...Good advice. Nice job. This forum needs more folks like you.

1 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

Camry

Looking for a Used Camry in your area?

CarGurus has 998 nationwide Camry listings starting at $3,995.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Reelin68
    Reputation
    34,300
  • #2
    Tony Ciccotelli
    Reputation
    19,260
  • #3
    Tony Ciccotelli
    Reputation
    5,560
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Honda Accord
41 Great Deals out of 980 listings starting at $2,995
Used Toyota Corolla
131 Great Deals out of 2,252 listings starting at $3,495
Used Honda Civic
191 Great Deals out of 3,879 listings starting at $2,877
Used Toyota RAV4
109 Great Deals out of 2,982 listings starting at $6,012
Used Toyota Avalon
4 Great Deals out of 34 listings starting at $6,795
Used Lexus IS
24 Great Deals out of 440 listings starting at $4,400
Used Toyota Tacoma
39 Great Deals out of 882 listings starting at $9,975
Used Nissan Altima
31 Great Deals out of 675 listings starting at $1,995
Used Toyota Highlander
40 Great Deals out of 861 listings starting at $7,498
Used Honda CR-V
156 Great Deals out of 4,709 listings starting at $100
Used Lexus ES
13 Great Deals out of 207 listings starting at $5,900
Used Toyota 4Runner
19 Great Deals out of 528 listings starting at $7,700

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.