Rear shock absorber replacement
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Rear shock absorber replacement
How much does a rear shock absorber replacement cost?
The shock absorbers are an integral component in your vehicle's suspension system.
Not only do they help absorb vibrations and bumps in the road so they aren’t transferred into the cabin, they also work with the suspension springs to keep your wheels and tyres on the road.If your shock absorbers are worn or leaking, not only will your journey be bumpy and uncomfortable, but other suspension and steering components may wear out and your vehicle may not handle as it should. Shock absorbers do wear out over time and need to be replaced if they are not doing their job correctly.
If your shock absorbers are worn or leaking, not only will your journey be bumpy and uncomfortable, but other suspension and steering components may wear out and your vehicle may not handle as it should.
Shock absorbers do wear out over time and need to be replaced if they are not doing their job correctly.
What is a shock absorber?
A shock absorber is usually made up of a cylindrical container filled with a liquid or gas with a piston located in the centre.
When the vehicle travels over bumps, the piston compresses against the gas or liquid, which absorbs the bump without transferring the shock into the cabin.
The gas or liquid then returns the piston back to its rest position, ready for the next bump.
Symptoms your rear shock absorbers need replacing
- Bouncy or unstable ride
- Tyres wearing unevenly
- Braking distances increasing
- Harsh impact when driving over bumps
How is this repair carried out?
- The shock absorbers will be inspected and a ‘bounce’ test carried out
- If they require replacing, the wheels will be removed and the old shock absorbers disconnected and discarded
- The new shock absorbers will be fitted and the suspension and steering components inspected for wear or damage
- The wheels will be refitted and the vehicle tested to ensure correct operation.
Tips to remember
- Shock absorbers should always be replaced in pairs, to make sure the vehicle handling remains stable and predictable.
- If your shock absorbers are worn out or leaking, rapid and/or uneven wear of your tyres and other suspension and steering components may result, and stopping distances may increase – especially emergency stops in wet or slippery conditions.
- An easy way to determine if your shock absorbers are worn out, is the ‘bounce’ test. This is a simple test to carry out. Push down on one corner of your vehicle, and if it continues to bounce after releasing, your shock absorbers are not working efficiently and replacement may be required.
How Important is replacing worn or failed shock absorbers?
The shock absorbers are responsible for eliminating most of the road vibration that is transferred through the body of the vehicle.
They also play a key role in keeping your wheels and tyres on the road at all times.
Having worn out or leaking shock absorbers can decrease the grip your tyres have on the road, increasing stopping distances - especially in emergency situations, and reduced traction and handling capabilities of your vehicle.
Having worn or leaking shock absorbers not only makes the ride of your vehicle uncomfortable but can also put you and other motorists in danger.
If you've read this far, you obviously care about your car. A lot. So next time you need a service, repair or inspection, visit AutoGuru. We let you search and book from over 1,600 qualified mechanics, who eat car troubles for breakfast.
