How to check the condition of a car's shock absorbers?

Despite many opinions, the shock absorber is not only responsible for driving comfort. Its more important task is to ensure our safety while driving. How are shock absorbers arranged and how to check their condition yourself? Find out today!

Shock absorbers are designed to maintain traction of the wheels to the ground, as well as to damp vibrations that occur when driving on uneven surfaces. Attention! Damage to this component will increase the stopping distance, since it is the shock absorbers that are responsible for the proper traction of the wheels to the surface.

How do shock absorbers work?

Shock absorbers are suspension elements that interact closely with the springs, thanks to which the wheels have the best contact with the chassis. Their second important task is to provide us with the most comfortable driving experience.

It all depends on the damping characteristics of the shock absorbers. The greater the damping force, i.e. the stiffer and therefore sportier the shock absorbers, the better the car grips the road and allows you to maintain control of the car even during very dynamic driving. The lower the damping force, the higher the driving comfort, but also the lower the vehicle stability.

How do shock absorbers wear out?

Like any part in a car that we constantly use, shock absorbers lose their effectiveness over time. On Polish rapids, the average service life of shock absorbers is about 60-80 thousand. km, but inspections of this component are recommended every 20 thousand. kilometers traveled. A good opportunity for this could be a periodic technical inspection, which in Polish road conditions should also be carried out annually.

What is the risk of driving without working wheel vibration damping elements?

According to the opinion, the most risky driving is to increase the stopping distance when driving without effective shock absorbers. Experts estimate that in the case of the average car, 50 percent of the shock absorbers are worn out. increase the braking distance from 50 km / h by more than 2 m. However, such a decrease in shock absorbers is unfortunately invisible for drivers.

Remember! Driving with worn shock absorbers becomes especially dangerous for vehicles equipped with ABS and ESP, as it causes even greater elongation.

How to check the condition of the shock absorbers yourself?

To check the condition of the shock absorbers, it is enough to press harder on the body above the shock absorber. After pressing, we suggest that you quickly move away and observe the behavior of the machine. If it immediately returns to its previous position or slightly exceeds it, do not worry - the shock absorber is fully functional.

Also, pay attention to the fluid inside the shock absorber. A preliminary inspection will determine if the shock absorber is dry or wet in our car. When the damper is dry, there is likely to be fluid in place that allows the damper to function properly.

Damage to shock absorbers is often ignored by drivers - their repair is postponed, because it is possible to drive on a “swinging” car, such a defect does not immobilize the vehicle. However, it should be understood that faulty shock absorbers are just as dangerous as broken brakes!

Shock absorbers and other car accessories can be found at avtotachki.com. You will find everything your car needs!