When to Replace Shock Absorbers?
Your shock absorbers are an integral and important part of your car’s suspension system. Good suspension will help keep your car sure footed on the road and help to keep you and your passengers safe. Old and worn shock absorbers can lead to an array of driving and handling issues and can also be an MOT fail. So, how do you know when to replace shock absorbers?
Uneven Tyre Wear
Can you see bald patches or uneven wear on your tyres? This usually means your tyres don’t have optimal contact with the road. This can be caused by worn shock absorbers and can have a detrimental effect on both tyre grip and car control.
Longer Stopping Distances
Having worn shock absorbers on your car can increase your stopping distance by up to 20%. As you increase your travelling speed this will also increase the distance it takes your vehicle to completely stop. This 20% extra stopping distance can be enough to cause an accident and is a sure sign of when to replace shock absorbers.
Vibration While Driving
If your shocks are working properly, they should keep your tyres in optimal contact with the road. Worn shock absorbers however can cause vibrations when you are driving. This can be a tell-tale sign of work shock absorbers and possible handling problems which can lead to poor control of your car.
Swerving & Nose-Diving
Does your car dip or swerve under braking? If so, then you need to have your shock absorbers checked at the first opportunity as dipping or swerving under braking is a tell-tale sign of worn-out shock absorbers and a hard to control vehicle.
Car Sliding & Veering
If you have to constantly correct your car’s steering in mild wind conditions, this can also be a sign of worn shock absorbers delivering reduced control to the driver.
Rocking & Rattling
Lat but not least, if your car rocks and rattles over bumps and uneven surfaces, it is highly likely your shock absorbers could be heavily worn. Along with an unpleasant ride, this rocking and rattling could be putting unwanted pressure on other car components and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Free Shock Absorber Inspection
If you suspect you may have worn shock absorbers, call Autofit Garage Chorley on 01257 267 829 and book in for a free shock absorber inspection.
We will be delighted to carry out a free shock absorber inspection for you and advise you on your options, should you require any shock absorber replacement.
Autofit Garage Chorley is open 8.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and 8.00am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. You can find us at 46-50 Bengal Street, Chorley PR7 1SA.