How do I know if I need new shocks?
Determining if you need new shocks (or struts, which are similar components) involves checking for several signs of wear and performance degradation:
Ride Quality: If you notice a significant change in how your vehicle rides—such as increased bouncing, excessive vibration, or a rougher ride over bumps—it could indicate worn shocks.
Handling Issues: Worn shocks can lead to poor handling characteristics. You may experience excessive body roll during turns, nose-diving when braking, or instability at higher speeds.
Uneven Tire Wear: Shocks help maintain proper tire contact with the road. If you notice uneven tire wear patterns, especially cupping (where the tread wears unevenly in patches), it could be due to worn shocks.
Leaking Fluid: Visible fluid leaking from the shock absorbers or struts is a clear sign of internal damage and indicates they need replacement.
Mileage and Age: Manufacturers typically recommend replacing shocks or struts every 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. If your vehicle has surpassed this mileage or is over 5-10 years old, it may be time for new shocks.
Dipping When Stopping: When you come to a stop, if your vehicle dips forward excessively (nose dive), it's a sign that the shocks are not effectively damping the compression of the suspension.
Noise: Knocking or banging noises when driving over bumps or rough roads can indicate that the shocks are no longer controlling the movement of the suspension effectively.