Can the car still be driven if the shock absorber is broken?
3 Answers
The car can still be driven if the shock absorber is broken. Here is some relevant information about shock absorbers: 1. Concept: The need for shock absorbers arises because springs cannot stabilize immediately. In other words, after being compressed and released, springs will continue to oscillate for a period of time. Therefore, shock absorbers can absorb the vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces, ensuring a comfortable ride. 2. Principle: Related to the transfer of vehicle weight. The speed of weight transfer during corner entry and exit affects the balance of handling, and this effect persists until the weight transfer is complete. The speed of weight transfer is controlled by the shock absorbers. Adjusting the speed of the shock absorbers during compression and rebound can alter the speed of the vehicle's momentum transfer.
Once when my shock absorbers were broken, I stubbornly drove to work, only to find the car shaking violently—going over a puddle would make it bounce, and steering became uncontrollable, nearly causing a skid. After parking, I noticed uneven tire wear, which scared me into slowing down immediately. Driving long-term with faulty shocks poses serious risks: longer braking distances increase accident risks, loss of control in rainy conditions, and potential damage to the suspension system or even frame deformation. My advice is to drive only short distances at low speeds (below 30 km/h) to the repair shop. Once you reach home or work, get it fixed immediately—don’t wait like I did until a small issue turns into major repairs.
Never drive for extended periods with a faulty suspension system. It accelerates tire wear, impairs braking performance, and may damage other components like springs or bearings. The car will sway violently over bumps, compromising comfort and becoming especially hazardous at high speeds. If driving is absolutely necessary, maintain a speed around 20 km/h, stick to smooth roads avoiding rough sections, and aim to reach your destination within 10 minutes. I've seen a friend do this, only to end up with doubled repair costs. Timely repairs are the best approach – regularly check shock absorbers for oil leaks to prevent potential issues.
