Shock absorbers are an integral part of any suspension system. When a car is moving over rough or uneven surfaces, they absorb the energy from the springs, helping to stop the car from bouncing or vibrating too much. It also ensures that the tyres are always in contact with the road surface, ensuring a comfortable and safe drive.
This means that there are enormous demands placed upon your shock absorbers and you will certainly feel the effects on your handling and steering if they're worn.
As they directly impact your safety, you must look out for any signs of a faulty part and book a specialist inspection or repair as soon as you notice a problem.
There are plenty of common warning signs that can indicate a suspension problem, including:
The pattern of tyre wear looks like cups or is "scalloping". This is when the tread looks wavy, because the tyre isn’t able to stay firmly on the road.
Your car behaves differently on a familiar road.
Your stopping distance is up to 20% further than usual.
You notice your car bouncing more than it normally would while driving over bumps.
Your car swings up and down like a boat.
Your car swerves and dips when the brakes are used.
Squealing tyres when you turn a corner.
Squeaking suspension.
Shock absorbers wear naturally over time but neglect can also cause them to fail suddenly. To maximise their lifespan, we recommend driving sensibly and booking regular car maintenance.
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