What to Do If the Shock Absorber Is Too Hard?

[LeVincent]

The solutions for a shock absorber being too hard are: 1. Reduce the tire pressure, but the reduced pressure should still be within the normal range. This method can provide slight relief; 2. Replace the shock absorber with an adjustable one, if modifications are allowed. Adjustable shock absorbers can also be tuned for height and damping. The shock absorber in a car is used to suppress the oscillation when the spring rebounds after absorbing vibrations and to reduce the impact from the road surface. It accelerates the attenuation of vibrations in the frame and body, improving the smoothness of the ride. Although the shock-absorbing spring can filter out some of the road vibrations, the spring itself still undergoes reciprocating motion. The shock absorber is then used to control the spring's bouncing. Therefore, the performance of the shock absorber is closely related to the use of the spring and the car's shock-absorbing capability. Heavier cars generally use stiffer shock absorbers.

[RyleeDella]

When I drive, I always feel the car is bumping hard, like sitting on a hard bench, especially on rough roads. This could be due to the shock absorbers being too stiff, and there are many possible reasons, such as the shock absorbers aging, oil leakage, or being set too tight from the factory. I first checked the tire pressure—is it too high? It should normally be within the range indicated on the vehicle’s frame label. Excessive tire pressure can make the suspension feel stiffer and significantly reduce comfort. If that’s not the issue, I’ll have a professional check the shock absorbers themselves—they might need to be replaced with a softer model, preferably from a reputable brand like those paired with Michelin. Additionally, other parts of the suspension system, such as the springs, could also be problematic, so a full inspection would save trouble later. Driving discomfort really affects the mood, especially during long trips, which can lead to fatigue. A simple maintenance check and spending a few hundred bucks on new shock absorbers can make a big difference.

[LunaRose]

As a car modification enthusiast, I've encountered shock absorbers that were ridiculously stiff, clearly the original design wasn't suited for everyday road conditions. I directly upgraded to adjustable shock absorbers, like the gas-oil type, which can be tuned for softness or stiffness based on road conditions. Before making any moves, first confirm whether the shocks are truly faulty—if they're aged or making strange noises, they need replacing. The upgrade is straightforward: remove the old ones and install new ones, opting for comfort-oriented parts. Don't skimp and buy knockoff products, or the ride will be even bumpier. I also added cushioning rubber pads for extra support, costing just a few hundred yuan, which is quite reasonable. After the modification, going over speed bumps feels like driving on cotton—absolutely amazing! By the way, don't overlook the matching of tires and rims, and adjust the tire pressure to a moderate level, or the comfort improvements will be wasted. In short, moderate modifications can enhance driving pleasure without compromising safety.

[OEden]

Veteran drivers' experience tells me that overly stiff shock absorbers make driving very uncomfortable. First, try minor adjustments: reduce speed when driving over uneven roads, brake gently and accelerate smoothly to minimize impact. Check if the shock absorbers are leaking or if the springs are deformed—replace them if issues are found. Comfort comes only when tire pressure is correct, typically 2.3 for front tires and 2.5 for rear tires. Opting for softer shock absorbers is better for long-distance driving, such as switching urban SUVs to family-oriented types. Driving habits also matter: avoid rough roads and maintain the suspension system regularly. Simple fixes save money, but safety and comfort come first.