How to tell if shock absorbers need replacing?

...

If you hit a bump or weight is transferred around the car while driving, the shock absorbers control it. They ensure that your tyres remain in contact with the road. They make up an integral part of your suspension system.

Shock absorbers are basically operating all the time as you drive. They ensure smooth driving over different road surfaces. Over time these components will need to be replaced due to general wear and tear. Once you’ve felt some of the telltale signs that its time to replace your shocks.

How do Shock Absorbers work?

Before you need your shocks or struts replaced you’ll notice some key signs of bad shocks.

Your shock absorbers connect the trailing arms and axles to the body. They bolt up to the strut towers and ride up and down with the springs that support the car’s weight.

Inside your shock absorbers are a metal rod with a piston that moves in and out of chamber that contains gas. There is a small hole at the end of the chamber that the fluid is forced through. When the rod retracts, it sucks the fluid back through.

So as the rod goes forward and back, it softens the impacts that the suspension feels as you drive.

How to tell if you need to replace your shock absorbers

There are some key indicators that you need to get your shocks replaced.

  • Uncomfortable ride. If you notice the car is bouncing a lot more than usual and is riding rough, your shocks could be bad.
  • If you go over a speed bump or driveway and can hear the car bottom out. This means the shocks have lost their strength.
  • Increased stopping distance. If your car feels like it’s nosing down and the distance it takes to stop is increased, then the shocks aren’t doing their job.
  • Poor cornering. When you turn the steering wheel, if the car leans way over then the shocks might be bad and not handling the transfer.

What do i do if my Shocks need replacing?

Simply click here and we can connect you with a skilled mechanic who can get your car back on the road in no time. We make booking your car in for its service and any other work, as easy as possible.