Why does the 4S shop only replace one shock absorber?
2 Answers
It is because only one shock absorber is leaking oil, so only the damaged one needs to be replaced. Introduction to automotive shock absorbers: Automotive shock absorbers (including suspension springs), as the most important component in a vehicle's vibration damping system, are responsible for absorbing vibrations and impacts caused by uneven road surfaces while driving, thereby providing a comfortable ride for passengers. If a shock absorber is damaged, the vehicle will experience excessive bouncing and instability during driving, which can even significantly affect driving safety in severe cases. Lifespan of automotive shock absorbers: Under normal circumstances, automotive shock absorbers do not have a fixed lifespan. As long as there is no oil leakage, internal rubber aging, cracking, or other issues, they can continue to be used.
A while ago, my neighbor took his car to the 4S shop for inspection, and they found an oil leakage issue in the rear shock absorber. As a result, only the faulty one was replaced. At first, he was puzzled and came to ask me for the reason. With over twenty years of experience in the automotive repair industry, I’ve seen this situation often. The 4S shop’s approach is based on the diagnostic report. If the other shock absorber is functioning normally without wear or leakage, there’s no need to replace both. This saves on material and labor costs, making it more economical for the car owner. However, I must point out that shock absorbers come in pairs. If only one is replaced, the significant difference in wear between the old and new ones could lead to an unbalanced body tilt, affecting handling safety when cornering or going over speed bumps. Therefore, I advise the owner to proactively request a thorough inspection of the other side by the 4S shop to confirm whether simultaneous replacement is necessary, ensuring driving stability. After all, safety is no small matter, and regular maintenance to prevent issues is the right approach.