How Long Do Car Shock Absorbers Last?

[OKayden]

Shock absorbers do not have a specific replacement cycle and should be replaced when they are damaged. Shock absorbers need to be replaced promptly if they show signs of oil leakage or physical damage. Damaged or leaking shock absorbers can become stiff, affecting driving comfort. Before replacing shock absorbers: Wheel alignment must be performed when replacing shock absorbers because if only the left shock absorber is replaced and the right one remains unchanged, the spring force of the two shock absorbers will be relatively uneven. Method for removing shock absorbers: First, remove the four screws and take off the mudguard. You can see the repaired AB glue on the mudguard. Loosen the two screws fixing the brake caliper and remove the caliper. Remove the plastic cover at the top of the shock absorber, slightly loosen the screw with a hex key, remove the two hex screws fixing the shock absorber, and take off the shock absorber.

[LeBennett]

As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I'd say it's hard to pinpoint exactly how long shock absorbers last, but generally they're good for about 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. My previous car, which was mainly driven on highways and city roads, didn't show noticeable bouncing over speed bumps until around 100,000 kilometers—after replacement, the ride became significantly more stable. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads or mountain paths, they might wear out severely by 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers; if you often take long-distance trips, their lifespan could be extended. The key is to watch for abnormal noises or noticeable body sagging, as these indicate aging shocks. During regular maintenance, technicians will inspect the suspension system—it's best not to delay replacements too long, as worn shocks can affect braking and handling safety, leading to costlier and more troublesome repairs later. Early prevention saves a lot of hassle.

[DelBennett]

I usually drive my kids to school, so having broken shock absorbers is really dangerous! Normally, they should last around 70,000 to 80,000 kilometers, but my small car has only driven a little over 50,000 kilometers, and it started shaking when going over bumps in the neighborhood. It scared me so much that I immediately went to replace them. In terms of time, they usually last about six or seven years on average, but if you carry heavy loads or drive on rough roads, you might need to replace them in four or five years. A car enthusiast I know mentioned that after replacing the shock absorbers, the car became quieter, handled more responsively, and even parking felt safer. Considering driving safety, I recommend checking the suspension every two years, especially when you have kids in the car. Don’t skimp on maintenance costs—safety comes first.

[LaLola]

The lifespan of shock absorbers depends on multiple factors, such as your driving habits and road conditions. Generally, 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers is a standard range. When my previous car reached 80,000 kilometers, the tires showed uneven wear, and the car wobbled during turns, indicating the shocks had failed. Climate also has a big impact—corrosion accelerates in humid areas. Lightly pressing the throttle to avoid bumps can extend their life. If you notice strange noises or an uneven ride height, replace them immediately to prevent damage to other components like suspension arms. In short, stay observant and act early.