Do I Need to Replace the Springs When Changing Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
Replacing shock absorbers does not necessarily require replacing the springs. If the car shakes severely, it is usually not related to the springs, as springs primarily serve a cushioning function. A faulty shock absorber can affect the car's balance, but replacing them in pairs (left and right) will not cause issues. Unusual noises are often due to aging or wear of the shock absorber buffer rubber. Below is more information about shock absorbers: 1. Shock absorbers are not designed to support the vehicle's weight but to dampen the oscillations after the springs absorb shocks and to absorb energy from road impacts. In a car with faulty shock absorbers, the vehicle will bounce excessively after passing over bumps or uneven surfaces. Shock absorbers are meant to control this bouncing. 2. Without shock absorbers, the rebound of the springs cannot be controlled, leading to severe bouncing when driving on rough roads. During turns, the up-and-down motion of the springs can also cause loss of tire grip and traction. The ideal scenario is to use shock absorbers to limit the spring's rebound to a single cycle.
Should I replace the springs when changing shock absorbers? As someone who frequently maintains my own car, here's my insight: It's not strictly necessary, but highly recommended to replace them together to save a lot of trouble. Last time I only replaced the shocks on my old car without touching the springs, and the ride became noticeably bumpier. Later, I discovered the old springs had lost their elasticity due to fatigue, forcing the new shocks to work harder, which caused severe wear within just a few months. A mechanic friend explained that springs typically last 80,000-100,000 km. Replacing only one component can unbalance the suspension system, compromising handling stability and even posing risks, especially at highway speeds. I recommend checking for rust or deformation while you're at it. If your car is older or frequently carries heavy loads, replacing them promptly actually saves money and ensures safety in the long run. Also, don't forget to realign the wheels to maintain optimal overall performance.
