How to Determine if the Shock Absorber is Damaged?
4 Answers
Generally, a faulty shock absorber will show signs of oil leakage, as the shock absorber relies on hydraulic oil to function internally. If the oil leaks out, it cannot work properly. You can usually detect the issue after driving about 10 kilometers. If the shock absorber becomes excessively hot, it indicates a problem. You can test it in an area with fewer vehicles and pedestrians. The speed doesn't need to be too high—just check if the vehicle body remains stable during rapid braking.
Once while driving on the highway, I felt the car was unusually bumpy, like riding a boat, with particularly noticeable body sway, especially after going over speed bumps when the suspension didn't return to smoothness, accompanied by a buzzing noise. I suspected it might be an issue with the shock absorber solenoid, as this component controls the current affecting the suspension's stiffness. The method to diagnose is simple: first, check if any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard, then test drive on uneven roads to feel if the suspension response has become too stiff or out of control. You can also inspect the wiring connectors for looseness, damage, or signs of burning. For safety, it's crucial to repair any faults promptly, as unstable handling during high-speed turns increases risks. It's best to visit a professional shop to measure the resistance with a multimeter; normal values should be within a few ohms. Having a technician inspect it during regular maintenance can prevent issues before they arise.
I usually enjoy working on my car myself, and checking if the shock absorber solenoid is bad is quite straightforward. Prepare a multimeter, unplug the solenoid wire after turning off the engine, and measure the resistance at both ends. If the reading is very high or infinite, it means there's an internal open circuit. Also, check if the wiring harness is worn, corroded, or disconnected, as these can easily cause the suspension to malfunction. In terms of symptoms, you might feel poor shock absorption while driving, with the car bouncing excessively and unstable during turns, making it uncomfortable like driving on a gravel road. DIY saves money, but don’t mess around if you're unsure—get a professional diagnosis to avoid misjudgment. Electronic components are sensitive to water and overload, so protecting the wiring and ensuring proper sealing is key.
A faulty shock absorber solenoid affects driving safety, causing sluggish suspension response, severe body shaking when passing over bumps, and difficulty controlling the steering—these are signs of a malfunction. Detection method: Check if the system warning light is on when starting the car, and test drive on uneven roads to feel abnormal vibrations. Severe damage poses a high risk of loss of control at high speeds, requiring immediate parking for inspection. Use simple tools like a multimeter to measure resistance; a low reading indicates normal, otherwise, it's damaged. Timely repair is crucial—do not delay. Safety comes first; prioritize professional inspection.
