* Driving conditions: Frequent off-roading, driving on rough roads, or heavy loads will wear them out much faster than primarily highway driving.
* Driving style: Aggressive driving puts more stress on suspension components.
* Visual inspection: Look for leaks (oil stains on the shocks/struts), damaged boots, or excessive rust. If you see any of these, it's time for replacement.
* Performance: Pay attention to how your RAV4 handles. Signs of worn shocks and struts include:
* Excessive bouncing: After going over bumps, the vehicle continues to bounce for several seconds.
* Poor handling: The vehicle feels unstable or difficult to control, especially in corners or on uneven surfaces.
* Nosedive during braking: The front end dips excessively when braking.
* Squeaking or knocking noises: Sounds coming from the suspension system during driving, especially over bumps.
* Uneven tire wear: Worn shocks and struts can contribute to uneven tire wear.
General guideline: While some sources suggest replacement every 50,000-80,000 miles, this is just a rough estimate. For a 1999 RAV4, it's highly likely they're due for replacement regardless of mileage. A thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is the best way to determine their condition. They can perform a visual inspection and a suspension test to assess the performance of your shocks and struts. Don't wait until they completely fail—replacing them proactively can improve handling, safety, and prevent further damage to other suspension components.
