Shock absorbers help reduce vehicle body oscillations during vehicle operation. They maintain stable contact of tires with the road surface, thus making the use of your vehicle more comfortable and safe. The average service life is 100,000 to 120,000 km of mileage.
What one should know about replacing shock absorbers
- Failure of these car parts is indicated by body vibrations when the vehicle is moving, by body roll in cornering, and deteriorated steerability. When the vehicle is operated on an uneven surface, knocking sound may be heard from the suspension. Uneven tire wear is also a symptom of a poor state of these components.
- It is advisable to entrust the replacement of the components to specialists. For one, safe working with the springs requires a special hydraulic compressor. Besides, wheel alignment may be required after installation of new spare parts. The need for this procedure is determined by the type of vehicle suspension.
- If you have decided to perform the work yourself, remember that twin-tube shock absorbers are to be primed before installation. Mono-tube components usually do not require this procedure.
- These car parts are to be replaced in pairs for each axle. Failure to do so will significantly deteriorate steerability of the vehicle.
- If you're going to buy shock absorbers online, place an order for dust boots and bump stops, too. All these spare parts are to be installed together.
- After the vehicle has been parked for a long time at low temperatures, it is recommended to drive at low speed for some time to restore the operability of shock absorbers. Such preventive measure will have a positive effect on their service life.