In general, a strut is a functioning member of the support of the vehicle. A structural device holding the vehicle relative to the tire.

A shock absorber is a dampener to spring movement/oscillation.

In some cars a shock absorber is built into a structural member and that is refered to a a strut. A strut doesn't have to have a shock in it; such as a longitudinal strut.

More simply put, a car wil roll down the road without a shock but will fold up without a strut.

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Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician