How Often Should the Shock Absorbers on a Prado Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Prado shock absorbers should be replaced every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. In fact, automotive shock absorbers serve as vibration dampers. They are not only used in the suspension system but also in other parts of the vehicle, such as the cab, seats, steering wheel, and even as buffers in the vehicle's bumper. The Prado is a mid-to-large-sized SUV under FAW Toyota, equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine featuring natural aspiration. The vehicle measures 4840mm in length, 1885mm in width, and 1890mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2790mm. It is a 5-door, 7-seat SUV with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Having driven a Prado for many years, my experience is that there's no fixed replacement interval for shock absorbers, but it's generally recommended to inspect them every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. If you frequently go off-road, carry heavy loads, or drive on bumpy roads, wear accelerates and replacement might be needed as early as 60,000 kilometers. Remember, shock absorbers are crucial for suspension stability—when they age, the body sways noticeably, bumps feel harsher, braking distance increases, and tire wear becomes uneven. Pay attention to these symptoms during daily driving. Have technicians perform a bounce test during annual maintenance to check rebound performance—don't wait for complete failure. Neglecting replacement increases chassis stress, damages other components, and raises accident risks. So don't cut corners—timely repairs are cost-effective, and safe driving is paramount.
