Is It Normal for Shock Absorbers to Make Impact Noises When Going Over Potholes?
3 Answers
Is It Normal for Shock Absorbers to Make Impact Noises When Going Over Potholes_58 Auto It is normal for shock absorbers to make impact noises when going over potholes. When failing to avoid potholes in time while driving, the shock absorber will rapidly compress. When the compression exceeds its limit, the shock absorber will bottom out, producing a clanging metal sound from impacting the buffer block. Shock absorbers are designed to suppress oscillations from spring rebound after absorbing shocks and impacts from road surfaces. They are widely used in automobiles to accelerate the attenuation of frame and body vibrations, thereby improving ride comfort. When traversing uneven roads, while suspension springs can filter out road vibrations, the springs themselves still undergo reciprocating motion. The shock absorber functions to restrain this spring oscillation. Working principle: Most automotive suspension systems employ hydraulic shock absorbers. Their operating mechanism involves piston movement within the shock absorber when relative motion occurs between the frame (or body) and axle due to vibrations. This causes the hydraulic fluid inside the shock absorber chamber to repeatedly flow from one chamber to another through various orifices.
A slight knocking sound from the shock absorbers when going over bumps can be normal under certain circumstances, such as on uneven roads where the piston movement inside the shock absorber may produce some noise. However, if the sound is particularly loud or occurs with every bump like a drumbeat, it's abnormal and may indicate issues like aging shock absorbers with oil leakage, loose springs, or damaged buffer blocks. Having driven for nearly ten years, I've experienced similar problems. Initially, I didn't pay much attention, but later, the accelerated wear of chassis components led to more noticeable body sway at high speeds, increasing safety risks. I recommend first checking for any oil stains or signs of looseness around the shock absorbers yourself, then getting a comprehensive inspection at a professional shop. For safety's sake, don't delay. Regular maintenance checks on the shock absorbers' condition can help avoid major repairs.
A slight knocking sound from the shock absorbers when going over bumps is usually normal operational noise, as there is oil and pistons inside to cushion the impact. However, if the sound is loud or resembles metal clashing, it may indicate an issue. Common causes include leaking shock absorbers, worn bushings, or loose screws. I always pay attention to changes in the sound when driving over bumps. If it gets louder, I simply press down on each corner of the car to check if the rebound is quick. If it feels unstable, it's time for an inspection. Delaying repairs can lead to uneven stress on the chassis, accelerated tire wear, and even affect braking performance. It's best to check monthly and replace parts promptly. It doesn’t cost much but significantly improves the overall driving experience, making the car much smoother to drive.
