What is a shock absorber?
While suspension is the whole system, shock absorbers are the specific part that helps manage bumps and vibrations. At their core, shock absorber is akin to hydraulic pumps, working to regulate the bounce and recoil of your vehicle’s springs and suspension. Their job goes beyond just smoothing out bumps; they play an important role in keeping your car’s tyres firmly planted on the road, giving you complete control and responsiveness when you hit the brakes or navigate tricky terrain. In essence, shock absorbers work behind the scenes to deliver a smoother, safer driving experience. A typical car usually has four shock absorbers, with one located near each wheel.
What is a suspension system?
The suspension system in a car is like its backbone, supporting and controlling the vehicle’s movement over various road surfaces. It’s made up of several components, including springs, shock absorbers (or dampers), struts, and control arms.
Springs, typically coil or leaf springs, absorb the impact of bumps and dips in the road, helping to keep the car level and providing a smoother ride. Shock absorbers, as we discussed earlier, work alongside springs to control the bouncing motion of the suspension and make sure the tyres maintain contact with the road surface.
Struts are similar to shock absorbers but include additional structural support, often found in front-wheel-drive vehicles. Control arms, on the other hand, connect the suspension system to the car’s frame and help regulate the movement of the wheels.
Together, these components work harmoniously to absorb shocks, maintain stability, and provide comfort while driving. They play a major role in making sure that your vehicle is safe, and handle every bump the best possible way.
Get your shocks replaced with us!
Let us help you change your shocks! We’re here to make sure your car runs well and safely. If you’re feeling bumps, uneven tyre wear, or less stability, it might be time for new shocks. Don’t put it off! Our mechanics can check and replace them for you. Good shocks are important for your car’s suspension and safety. And with our easy booking and convenient location, getting them changed is too simple. Trust us to keep your ride comfy and secure!
Our workshop is located in Molendinar, give us a visit today!
What are the signs of a worn shock absorber?
Excessive bouncing. If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting a bump or dip in the road, it could indicate worn shocks.
Nose-diving or squatting. When braking or accelerating, if your vehicle’s front end dips or rear end squats excessively, it may signal worn shock absorbers.
Uneven tyre wear. Worn shocks can lead to uneven tyre wear, as they fail to keep the tyres in consistent contact with the road surface.
Poor handling and stability. If your vehicle feels unstable or drifts excessively during turns or lane changes, worn shocks may be the issue.
Increased stopping distance. Worn shock absorber can cause longer stopping distances, as they fail to maintain proper tyre contact with the road, reducing braking efficiency.
Fluid leaks. Visible fluid leaks around the shock absorbers are a clear sign of internal damage and the need for replacement.
Rough or noisy ride. Worn shock absorber can result in a rough or noisy ride, with increased vibrations and discomfort for passengers.
Shocks typically last around 80,000 kilometres, but this can vary based on driving conditions and habits. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify any issues early on and make sure your shocks last for longer. If you notice any signs of wear or poor performance, such as bouncing, swaying, or uneven tyre wear, come give us a visit!