What is a common method to check for a bad strut during a vehicle inspection?

A common method to check for a bad strut during a vehicle inspection is the bounce test. This test involves pushing down on the front or rear of the vehicle and then releasing it. If the vehicle bounces more than once before settling back to its normal position, it indicates that the struts are worn out or not functioning properly. Struts are crucial for controlling the vehicle's ride and handling, and excessive bouncing suggests that they are not adequately dampening the oscillations, which can lead to an unstable driving experience.

While other methods like visual inspections can help identify obvious signs of damage or wear, they do not specifically assess the strut's damping ability. Listening for unusual sounds may provide clues about the condition of the struts, but it is not a definitive method for diagnosing their performance. Measuring ride height can provide some information about suspension sag, which may be related to strut condition, but it doesn’t effectively test the strut’s ability to absorb shocks. Therefore, the bounce test is the most direct and effective way to evaluate strut performance during a vehicle inspection.