Is it necessary to replace the shock absorber assembly?
2 Answers
In most cases, shock absorbers do not need to be replaced in pairs; you can replace only the one that is damaged. Here is some relevant information about shock absorbers: 1. For most vehicles, shock absorbers have a relatively long lifespan, typically lasting 5 years or over 80,000 kilometers before they start to fail. The lifespan depends on factors such as the quality of the shock absorber, road conditions, load weight, and driving intensity, so even the same model of car can vary significantly. 2. Damaged shock absorbers can affect vehicle stability and comfort during emergency braking, sharp turns, or driving on bumpy roads, so they should be replaced promptly. Additionally, for the vast majority of vehicles, a wheel alignment is not necessary after replacing the shock absorber, as the process of removing and installing the shock absorber does not alter the alignment data.
Last time I changed the shock absorbers, I specifically asked the mechanic whether it was necessary to replace the whole set. He said it depends on the condition of the car. For example, for an old car that has been used for seven or eight years, with sagging springs and cracked rubber pads, it's more cost-effective to directly replace the assembly. After all, repairing individual components requires repeated disassembly and assembly, and the labor cost can amount to half the price of a new assembly. But if it's a new car or there's only minor oil leakage, a repair kit costing just a few dozen dollars will suffice. Additionally, car modification enthusiasts should note that only by replacing the entire sport shock absorber assembly can you achieve noticeable results. My neighbor tried to save money by only replacing the shock absorber core, but it started making strange noises within three months, and in the end, he had to remove it and replace the entire assembly again.
