Even though most classic car hobbyists do not drive the miles on their classic car as their daily driver shock absorbers do wear our or deteriorate. Driving with worn shock absorbers or struts can result in more than just a bad ride—there are safety implications to consider as well.
But recognizing when it is time to replace shock absorbers or struts is not always easy. You get used to the way the car drives because the changes are gradual and many times you do not drive often enough to realize the issue exists. You are not aware of the wear and tear or shock deterioration that is going on with the suspension over the miles and years that you own the vehicle. It is like that favorite pair of shoes that feel fine until, one day, you discover the soles are worn out.
How Shock Absorbers and Struts Work
Before you can start to work out whether your shock absorbers are wearing or have worn out, it is helpful to know precisely what they do.
When you are driving, your car’s springs and suspension go through a lot with potholes, speed bumps and all sorts of other road defects. Your shock absorbers manage any rebound and shock from these defects to make sure your tires are touching the ground and give you a comfortable driving experience.
Shocks are small oil pumps with a piston inside that controls the suspension and springs. As your car’s suspension rises and falls, the oil in the piston pumps to slow the springs and coils. Even if you are travelling at speed and your suspension is moving quickly, your shock absorbers will adapt to the conditions and counter the movement with resistance, ensuring a smooth driving experience.
The Warning Signs of Worn Shock Absorbers and Struts
While many variables determine the life of your shock absorbers or struts, experiencing any of these seven symptoms means it is time for replacements.
- Instability at highway speeds. Your vehicle never feels completely stable on the highway and is constantly moving up and down. The movement may be slight, but you notice it.
- Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns. When taking a sharp turn or an off-ramp, your vehicle leans or “tips” to the outside of the turn and feels wobbly.
- The front-end “dives” more than expected during hard braking. You may not notice this until you must jump hard on the brakes.
- Rear-end “squat” during acceleration. You’ll notice the front end of your vehicle rising while the rear “squats” during hard acceleration.
- Tires bouncing excessively. After hitting a bump, you can feel a tire (or tires) reacting or “bouncing” for a time. You may also hear a clunking noise.
- Unusual tire wear. Because the tire isn’t being held firmly to the road, the tread wears in a wavy manner instead of evenly.
- Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts. This is a sign that the seals have broken and the internal fluids essential to proper function are escaping.
What to Do if Your Shock Absorbers Are Worn Out
Those are the main signs to tell if shock absorbers are worn out, but with all the bumps and potholes on the roads, you will quickly notice if they have started to wear. It is inevitable that they will wear out over time and need replacing, and it is wise to get them replaced as quickly as you can. The problems that worn shock absorbers can cause may damage your car further and potentially cause an accident.
If you think your shocks need replacing, it is always advisable to replace all four simultaneously. Replacing a single shock absorber can cause worse handling than with a worn one. If you cannot replace all four at the same time, we recommend replacing the shock from the same end of the vehicle as the worn one to give equal handling.
Unless you are a qualified mechanic or have the DIY experience and skills to replace your shock absorbers, we always recommend taking your vehicle to a garage for repairs. They will be able to confirm the issue and carry out repairs safely.
How To Buy Replacement Shocks and Struts
Make sure you buy quality, brand-name shock absorbers or struts and remember that you have got choices. Your choice also include the OEM style shocks or struts or you can upgrade to a more modern absorber and even some adjustable shocks as part of your suspension system. Some may be a little stiffer for better cornering, while others may offer better ride comfort.
It is also important to ask about replacing all the worn parts connected to the struts. Do not be penny wise and dollar foolish. It is wise to replace all the other worn items associated with the struts, like bearing mounts, rubber bump stops and shock boots.
Whatever you do, do not neglect your shocks or struts. Just like with that comfortable pair of shoes, you will not fully appreciate the difference they make until you get fitted for new ones and hit the pavement.
Finally
Shock absorbers and struts are an essential part of a vehicle’s ability to operate smoothly and safely. However, these components do become worn or deteriorate over time and can sustain damage. That is why shock absorber and strut inspection, and maintenance should be a part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine.
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