Below is a quick reference of some of the common parts on a Strut/Unit front or rear suspension. Please note that every vehicle is different, some may have another part not shown, or some of the parts shown below are not part of your vehicle's suspension. But this illustration is a good basic guide of the parts, where they are located, and and what they are called.

When replacing a shock or strut (unit), many parts are reused. But most of these parts must be removed when replacing the unit during the installation, so it is more cost effective to change them at the same time if yours are bad, worn, or broken.