Shock absorber test

Worn or damaged shock absorbers will drastically reduce braking operation and efficiency and will result in premature tyre wear. Unsafe shock absorbers also negatively affect road holding, and stability control and make the vehicle very difficult to control around corners.

To test a vehicle’s shock absorbers, use the Bounce Test: Apply a downward force to one corner of the vehicle and “bounce” the vehicle three times. Release the vehicle at the bottom of a “bounce” and allow the vehicle to recover to its original position. This should happen instantly. If the vehicle continues to “bounce” then the shock absorber on that corner needs to be replaced.

Please note:

It is vitally important that both the left and right shock absorbers are replaced at the same time.

Five shock absorber test tips:

• Take your car to an empty parking lot. See what happens when you continually accelerate and brake. If your vehicle continues to bob up and down even after you have come to a complete stop from a slow speed, it may be time to change those shocks.
• You can also check your car’s bounce by pushing down on the bumper. If it takes it several bounces to return to its initial position, your shock absorbers may be weak.
• Park the car on a level surface and examine the car from the front and rear. If you notice your car isn’t level, it can mean something is off with your suspension and shocks.
• Check to see if there are any loose bolts, which may make a rattling noise when you’re driving. Loose bolts can also mean something is off with your shocks.
• Examine your shock tubes to see if they’re leaking any oil or liquids. This can also indicate bigger issues with your car’s shock absorbers.

If you are not sure of the condition of your shock absorbers, visit our e-CAR Workshops to have it inspected. 

Click here to find a workshop near you