How Quality Shocks Are Made

Filling a need

Identifying a need that isn’t currently being addressed is what many times starts the process of developing a new auto part. This can come from seeing problems with an original equipment part or from listening to what customers are really looking for in a shock or strut. This ability to provide problem-solving solutions is what sets Monroe apart from its competitors.

Research and Development

Once a need has been identified, a team of engineers at Monroe headquarters in Monroe, MI, spend countless hours doing research and development for the new part. Through developing many prototypes and designs using different materials, the engineering research and development team determines the optimum design of the part.

Monroe products are designed, engineered, fit and ride checked, and built with each vehicle specific ride and handling profile in mind. The final design strikes the right balance of performance while using quality materials and premium components that will give the part durability and a long lifespan.

Testing, Testing and More Testing

Once the product has been designed, the testing phase begins. At Monroe, we feel as if there is no such thing as too much testing – a shock or strut can’t be over tested before reaching the marketplace. Much of the testing involves simulating real-life situations to ensure that the part can handle the pressures that will be expected of it on the road.

Other types of testing include tests for strength – how much force the part can take, environmental testing to ensure the part can handle the elements and slow fatigue testing. Destructive testing is also conducted at the Monroe production plant in Paragould, AR, to learn more about how the shock or strut will wear over its lifespan.

Through rigorous testing and validation, the end goal is to have a part that is as good as the original equipment part that came on the vehicle or better than original equipment quality.

By combining strict performance standards along with our OE expertise, Monroe ensures OE-quality fit and function from each individual component as well as how the finished parts work together once installed.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing the shocks & struts so they can get to the marketplace is the final step in the process. The majority of Monroe shocks & struts are made at its Paragould, AR, manufacturing plant. The plant’s 1,200 team members are committed to continually improving and refining the manufacturing process to produce the high-quality shocks & struts that Monroe is known for.

Monroe team members take tremendous pride in their role in manufacturing premium ride control products. Treating each part that rolls off the production line like it’s going on their own vehicle; you can feel good about putting Monroe shocks & struts on your vehicle. Producing shocks & struts that service providers and customers trust without question is the goal of every team member at Monroe.

To the Marketplace

Now that the cycle of developing quality shocks & struts is complete, the product is ready to be put in the vehicle as an original equipment part or it hits the automotive aftermarket as a replacement part that customers can buy at an auto parts retailer.

Monroe’s involvement doesn’t end once the parts leave the factory. Monroe gives service providers and DIYers a helping hand with a best-in-the-business guarantee and support before, during and after the product purchase.