What Causes the Shock Absorber to Bottom Out When Driving Over Potholes?
4 Answers
If the shock absorber bottoms out when driving over potholes, check for oil leakage in the shock absorber. Here are some additional details: Shock absorber oil leakage: If the shock absorber is leaking oil, it needs to be replaced promptly. Otherwise, the damping effect will deteriorate significantly, affecting ride comfort and increasing the load on other chassis components. Over time, the springs may also become deformed, so replacement should be done as soon as possible. Vehicle leveling height value: Check the vehicle leveling height value (measure the left and right height values after lifting and restoring, and after pressing down and restoring, with a maximum difference within 10mm). Additionally, inspect the shock absorber for any oil leakage to determine whether it is damaged and needs replacement. Also, examine related suspension components, such as rubber bushings and ball joints, for any damage and replace them if necessary.
I've been driving for over a decade and often experience the suspension bottoming out when hitting potholes, which is quite annoying. There could be several main reasons: the shock absorbers are worn out or leaking oil, reducing their damping effect; the suspension springs have softened or fatigued, unable to support the vehicle body properly; driving too fast over potholes, resulting in a strong impact; or the vehicle is overloaded, such as carrying too much in the trunk, putting extra pressure on the suspension. I remember once on a long trip, when I hit a dirt pothole, there was a loud "bang" from the chassis, which scared me into stopping to check, only to find the shock absorbers had rusted. It's advisable to develop good habits, like checking the suspension system monthly for any unusual noises; keeping speed below 20km/h when going over potholes; and regularly taking the car for maintenance to replace worn parts. This helps protect the chassis and avoids major repairs caused by long-term wear and tear.
I often tinker with my car and have encountered situations where the shock absorber bottoms out. After analysis, common causes include damaged shock absorbers or deformed springs. Don't underestimate this issue—it affects driving stability, and sometimes low tire pressure can exacerbate the problem. The solution is straightforward: first, check if the tire pressure is normal, usually around 32 PSI; look for any signs of oil leakage from the shock absorbers; if possible, replace the shock absorber with a new one—it's affordable but makes a noticeable difference. After I fixed mine, the car drove like new, much more comfortable. When driving, be mindful of potholes and avoid aggressive maneuvers; during regular maintenance, remind the mechanic to check the suspension—safety first.
I bought a new car not long ago and experienced a loud suspension noise when going over a pothole, feeling like it bottomed out. The cause could be a suspension design issue or weakened springs, especially noticeable when driving fast. Now I slow down when going over potholes, usually driving at 15-20 km/h, and the problem occurs less frequently. Additionally, tire wear or insufficient tire pressure can easily trigger this issue, so it's recommended to do a quick vehicle check before each drive.
