Why is there a clunking sound after replacing the shock absorber?
3 Answers
The reasons for the clunking sound after replacing the shock absorber are: 1. Damaged shock absorber: When the vehicle's shock absorber is damaged, the coordination between its components is compromised, resulting in a clunking noise when operating on bumpy roads. 2. Damaged shock absorber top mount: The front shock absorber top mount, made of rubber material, assists the shock absorber and spring in providing damping and cushioning effects. The solution to the clunking sound after replacement is to install new parts. Shock absorbers can be categorized by damping material into hydraulic and pneumatic types, with another type being variable-damping shock absorbers. Shock absorbers are primarily used to suppress oscillations from spring rebound after absorbing shocks and impacts from the road surface.
I've been repairing cars for over 20 years. If there's a clunking sound after replacing shock absorbers, it's mostly caused by loose screws during installation. Shock absorber installation requires tightening all nuts. For example, if the bolts connecting the top mount to the vehicle body are loose, metal components will collide and make noise while driving. It could also be that the new shock absorber top rubber wasn't replaced or wasn't aligned properly, causing friction noise. Insufficient lubrication can also make components grind dryly and produce sounds. I recommend you return to the repair shop immediately for rechecking, asking them to use a torque wrench to retighten all connection points. Don't delay too long, otherwise the suspension system will experience additional wear, affecting driving balance and increasing accident risks. Some shops rush installations for speed and overlook details, so finding a reliable place for reinspection is necessary. Remember to check if the stabilizer bar links and shock absorber bushings have aged, as these could be hidden causes.
I've replaced the shock absorbers several times myself, and every time after replacement, they start making noise as soon as I drive. Common causes include issues with the shock absorbers themselves or improper handling of the components. For example, if the top mount is old and not replaced, the new shock absorber might be too stiff causing excessive friction, or loose screws might rattle and produce noise. One time, I replaced the shock absorber but didn't change the top mount, resulting in constant thumping; later, spending a small amount to replace the rubber pad solved the issue. Another time, the new shock absorber made noise during the break-in period, but the sound disappeared after driving a few hundred kilometers. A cost-saving approach is to first check if the screws are tight yourself, but don't force it—if there's a problem, take it back to the shop immediately for inspection. If the suspension system is messed up, handling deteriorates, and it becomes more dangerous on bumpy roads, making repairs even more expensive. It's advisable to listen for the direction of the noise at low speeds to guess which side has the problem. For instance, noise from the front wheels might indicate improper installation of the shock absorber.
