What Makes Strut Assemblies Different From Bare Struts?

If you’re diving into the world of car parts, especially when it comes to your suspension, you’ve probably come across the terms bare struts and strut assemblies. But what exactly is the difference between the two, and how do you know which one is right for your ride? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense—without the complicated jargon.

Bare Struts vs. Strut Assemblies?

Let’s start with bare struts. Think of them as the “just the essentials” version of a strut. It’s simply the strut itself—no extras. That means you don’t get the coil spring, strut mount, or bearing plate. Bare struts can be a more budget-friendly option upfront, but there’s a catch: you’ll have to source the other components and go through the extra labour of piecing it all together. It’s like buying a new couch but having to find the cushions and legs separately!

On the flip side, strut assemblies are the full package. They come with everything you need: the strut, the coil spring, mounts, and all the little bits that make installation a breeze. If you’re looking for something quick to install and hassle-free, a strut assembly is the way to go. Plus, if you’re not super confident about taking apart suspension components (which can be tricky and even dangerous), a pre-assembled strut is a safer and easier option.

Bare Struts vs. Assembled Struts: Which One is Right for You?

So, let’s talk about the main differences when comparing bare struts vs assembled struts. With bare struts, you’re getting just the basics, which means more work on your end. You’ll have to disassemble your old strut and reuse parts like the coil spring, bump stop, and mount. That can be fine if those parts are still in good shape, but if they’re worn out, you’re in for some extra shopping and wrench-turning.

With strut assemblies, you’re getting the whole kit and caboodle. Everything is brand new and ready to go, making your life a lot easier. If your car’s suspension is showing signs of age, replacing everything at once with a strut assembly can give you peace of mind and save you from future headaches.

Loaded Strut vs. Unloaded Strut: What’s the Difference?

Now, you might have heard of the terms loaded strut vs unloaded strut. A loaded (or complete) strut is, well, fully loaded with everything you need in one neat package. It’s ready to install right out of the box.

An unloaded strut, on the other hand, only includes the strut itself—so if your other components (like the coil spring) are still in good condition, an unloaded strut could be all you need.

But be warned—if those other parts are looking worse for wear, sticking with an unloaded strut might leave you with more work down the road.

Why Go for Strut Assemblies?

There are some solid reasons to go with a strut assembly:

Everything’s New: You get all brand-new components, which means better performance and fewer chances of anything breaking down soon.

Time-Saver: Everything’s pre-assembled, so you can skip the extra steps (and frustration) of putting it all together.

Safety First: Compressing coil springs can be tricky—and dangerous—if you don’t have the right tools or experience. Strut assemblies eliminate that risk.

What’s the Best Choice for Your Vehicle?

It really depends on your situation. If you’re mechanically inclined, have the time, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you might opt for bare struts to save a few bucks. But if you want something quick, easy, and safe, a strut assembly is definitely the smarter choice—especially if your current suspension is due for a full refresh.

Ready to give your suspension an upgrade? Explore our range of 4×4 suspension parts, including top-quality Strut assemblies. Head over to your reliable 4×4 parts shop, Unity4wd, and get your vehicle road-ready today!