How to Identify the Quality of Shock Absorbers
2 Answers
Methods to identify the quality of shock absorbers are as follows: 1. Check for leaks. Shock absorbers operate hydraulically, and hydraulic oil is crucial for their function. Only with hydraulic oil can shock absorbers perform effectively. Normally, the surface of a shock absorber should be dry and clean. If you find the exterior wet or even notice oil leakage on the upper part of the piston rod during inspection, it indicates a problem with the shock absorber. 2. Listen to the wheel sounds. The best way to test the quality of shock absorbers is to drive the car on rough roads. With functioning shock absorbers, the car will experience bumps but also a noticeable cushioning effect. If the shock absorbers are faulty, the bumps will feel more pronounced, and the wheels may produce a "thudding" sound when moving up and down, indicating the shock absorbers are no longer working and need replacement. 3. Steering test. Sometimes, only one shock absorber is faulty, and the issue may not be obvious when driving straight. However, during turns, the car's body tilt will increase noticeably. In some faster turns, the car might even skid. In such cases, the shock absorber may not be completely broken, but its damping force has significantly decreased and can no longer counteract the compression force generated by the car's suspension springs. 4. Temperature check by hand. Drive the car on rough roads for about 10 kilometers, then stop and touch the outer shell of the shock absorber. Normally, due to friction, the shock absorber should feel slightly warm. If the shell feels cold, it means the shock absorber was not functioning during the drive. At this point, check whether the shock absorber is broken or if there are other reasons. 5. Regularly inspect the exterior of the shock absorber. Shock absorbers also have dust covers and rubber pads. Although damage to these parts won't affect the shock absorber's function, it can cause unusual noises during driving, which may interfere with diagnosing other vehicle issues. If you notice damage, it's best to repair it promptly.
If you feel severe bumps while driving, especially when going over speed bumps or uneven roads, and the car body shakes so much that it's hard to stay seated, it might be a problem with the shock absorbers. I would stop the car and press down near one of the wheels, then release; a good shock absorber should rebound smoothly and steadily. If it bounces back quickly like a trampoline or bounces multiple times, it's likely damaged. Additionally, check for oil stains or dirt under the shock absorbers—leaking oil is a common sign of failure. Excessive body roll during turns or poor handling can also be indicators. Damaged shock absorbers can affect tire wear and other suspension components, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it's recommended to check them regularly and avoid waiting until the problem becomes severe. Personally, I test them every few months to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
