Why does the car body become higher after replacing the original shock absorber?
2 Answers
After replacing the original shock absorber, the car body may become higher due to the spring not fully settling with the shock absorber. Generally, it will return to normal height after driving for a period of time. Below is some relevant information about car shock absorbers: Definition: Shock absorbers are used to dampen the oscillations from the spring's rebound after absorbing shocks and impacts from the road surface. They are widely used in automobiles to accelerate the attenuation of vibrations in the frame and body, thereby improving the vehicle's ride comfort. Principle: Most shock absorbers used in automotive suspension systems are hydraulic shock absorbers. Their working principle is that when relative motion occurs between the frame (or body) and the axle due to vibrations, the piston inside the shock absorber moves up and down, causing the oil in the shock absorber chamber to repeatedly flow from one chamber to another through different orifices.
As someone with considerable driving experience, I've personally encountered the issue of increased vehicle height after replacing factory shock absorbers. Worn-out shock absorbers cause springs or damping components to deform over time, slightly lowering the car body. When new OEM parts are installed, the vehicle returns to its standard height. If technicians don't fully compress and secure the springs during installation, it may temporarily raise the vehicle height. After driving for a day or two, the suspension will gradually settle back to its familiar level. While increased height doesn't affect safety, be cautious if the car feels unstable or wobbly during turns - this could indicate improper suspension installation or aged springs. I recommend promptly visiting a professional repair shop to check spring length and shock absorber compatibility, preventing future tire wear or handling issues. Regular suspension system inspections during maintenance can prevent problems, as these details significantly impact vehicle longevity.
