Road Safety Blog

How to know when to replace one’s shocks and struts

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Ensuring the optimal performance of your vehicle involves paying close attention to various components, and shock absorbers are no exception. These critical elements contribute not only to the comfort of your ride but, more importantly, to the overall safety of your vehicle. In this article, we will delve into the essential role of shock absorbers and explore five key indicators that suggest it may be time to replace them. 1

The Crucial Role of Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts are vital to your vehicle’s suspension system by minimising the springing movement, preventing oscillation, and reducing bounce. When functioning correctly, these components facilitate easy steering, enhance vehicle handling, and provide a comfortable ride. Additionally, well-maintained shocks and struts contribute to adequately aligned wheels, further ensuring the stability of your vehicle on the road. 1

Differentiating Shock Absorbers and Struts

While shock absorbers focus solely on improving handling, struts have multifaceted roles. Struts are a structural component of the suspension system and an influencer of your vehicle’s alignment. It’s important to note that when replacing struts, a wheel alignment is often necessary to maintain the overall integrity of the suspension system. 1

Recognising the Signs of Worn Shock Absorbers

1. Uncomfortable Ride

The condition of South African roads can be challenging for any vehicle’s suspension system. Worn shock absorbers are evident through a decline in ride quality, resulting in discomfort during your journeys. Notably, traversing speed bumps may feel more pronounced, signalling the need for a closer inspection. 1

2. Steering Issues

Poor shock absorbers can adversely impact your steering. Suppose you experience a stiff or challenging-to-turn steering wheel and a sensation of swaying or leaning during turns or lane changes. In that case, it indicates that your shock absorbers may be compromised. Maintaining a straight line may also require additional effort. 1

3. Braking Effects

The condition of your shock absorbers can influence your vehicle’s brake performance. Unstable feelings, nosedives, or lurches forward during braking suggest potential issues with the shocks and struts. Such instability can compromise braking efficiency and affect safety features like Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Traction Control Systems (TCS). 1

4. Unusual Tire Wear

An easily noticeable sign of deteriorating shocks is uneven tire wear. Suspension damage can manifest as wear around tire edges or the formation of scalloped dips. Regular tire inspections are crucial to identify these signs early, preventing potential tire failure and ensuring optimal performance. 1

5. Consider the Age of Your Vehicle

Just as adhering to maintenance plans for new vehicles is essential, understanding the history of older cars is equally crucial. While shock absorbers generally have a long lifespan, it’s imperative to replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If uncertain, seeking expert advice ensures that your vehicle’s shock absorbers are replaced when necessary. 1

So, maintaining the health of your vehicle’s shock absorbers is paramount for both ride comfort and road safety. Recognising and promptly addressing the signs of wear can prevent potential hazards and ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance. Whether it’s discomfort during rides, steering irregularities, braking effects, unusual tire wear, or considering the age of your car, staying vigilant of these indicators will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. Regular inspections and timely replacements are vital to keeping your vehicle’s suspension system in top-notch condition. 1

Disclaimer

The article aims to provide South African motorists with information when to know when to replace one’s shocks and struts.

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Sources:

  1. https://aa.co.za/vehicle-insurance-is-not-a-luxury-its-a-necessity/

This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.

 

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