How to Check the Condition of Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
Signs of bad shock absorbers include: 1. Shock absorber oil leakage: Normally, the outer surface of a shock absorber should be dry and clean. If there is oil seepage, it indicates that the hydraulic oil inside the shock absorber has leaked from the upper part of the piston rod, meaning the shock absorber is basically ineffective; 2. Abnormal noise from tires when passing over speed bumps or rough roads: If there is abnormal noise from the wheels when driving over rough roads or speed bumps, it indicates poor or failed shock absorption; 3. Noticeable increase in body roll when cornering: If the damping force of the shock absorber is too weak, it cannot effectively suppress the compression of the spring; 4. Cold shock absorber casing: After driving on rough roads for a while, touch the casings of each shock absorber to feel their temperature. Normally, the shock absorber casing should be warm. If a shock absorber casing is cold, it means the shock absorber is damaged; 5. Repeated bouncing of the body under spring force: When the car is stationary, press down on one corner of the car body and then release it. The body will rebound under the spring force. If it stabilizes quickly after rebounding, the shock absorber is fine. If it bounces several times before stopping, it indicates a problem with the shock absorber.
As an old car enthusiast who works on vehicles daily, I have a practical method for checking shock absorber condition. Start with a visual inspection: crouch down and carefully examine the shock absorber surface for oil stains, which indicate internal seal leakage. Any cracks or deformations are definite damage signals. Then take the car for a test drive on a slightly bumpy road section – if you notice excessive body sway or gurgling noises while driving over bumps, it suggests insufficient damping force. After parking, firmly press down on each wheel corner above the body and release; ideal rebound should settle in place or bounce just once – repeated oscillations indicate shock failure. Regularly check tire wear patterns for unevenness, as irregular wear often relates to shock issues. Early detection can prevent high-speed loss of control risks.
