Must a Pair of Shock Absorbers Be Replaced If One Is Broken?
2 Answers
If one car shock absorber is broken, it is necessary to replace the pair together. This is because shock absorbers of different models have varying parameters, and if the specifications on the left and right sides are different, it can lead to imbalance between the two sides of the car during driving, affecting the vehicle's driving safety. The following is an introduction to shock absorbers: Introduction 1: Shock absorbers are used to suppress the oscillation after the spring absorbs shock and rebounds, as well as impacts from the road surface. They are widely used in cars to accelerate the attenuation of the frame and body vibrations, thereby improving the vehicle's ride comfort. Introduction 2: When driving on uneven roads, although the shock-absorbing springs can filter out road vibrations, the springs themselves still have reciprocating motion. The shock absorber is used to suppress this spring jumping. If the shock absorber is too soft, the body will bounce up and down; if it is too hard, it will create excessive resistance, hindering the normal operation of the spring. Introduction 3: In the process of modifying the suspension system, a hard shock absorber should be matched with a hard spring, and the hardness of the spring is closely related to the weight of the car. Therefore, heavier cars generally use harder shock absorbers. The device connected to the vibration-damping crankshaft is used to counteract the torsional vibration of the crankshaft (i.e., the phenomenon where the crankshaft twists under the impact force of the cylinder ignition).
From a safety and vehicle stability perspective, I've found that when one shock absorber is faulty, it's not absolutely necessary to replace the entire set of four. However, it's highly recommended to replace the corresponding one on the same axle to maintain balance. For instance, if one front wheel's shock is damaged, replace both front and rear shock absorbers. Otherwise, the significant performance difference between new and old shocks can cause the car to sway during cornering or on bumpy roads, increasing the risk of rollover. I've also noticed that replacing just a single shock may accelerate uneven tire wear. In the long run, this isn't cost-effective as it leads to more frequent repairs. I remember during my last vehicle inspection, the technician used a simple test—pressing down on the car body to observe rebound speed—to assess shock absorber condition. Regular maintenance can prevent these hidden dangers; don't be tempted by short-term savings.
