Suspension
Worn Shock Absorbers — Symptoms and Safety Risks
Worn shock absorbers cause bouncing, poor handling, increased stopping distances, and uneven tyre wear that compromise safety.
Shock absorbers control the movement of the vehicle suspension, keeping tyres in contact with the road. When they wear out, you may notice excessive bouncing after bumps, a wallowing feeling on corners, longer stopping distances, and dipping or swaying under braking. On commercial vehicles with heavy loads, worn shocks create instability that is dangerous at speed and in emergency manoeuvres. A simple bounce test (pushing down on each corner of the vehicle) can reveal worn shocks, but a professional inspection is more accurate. Replacing shocks in pairs on the same axle restores stability.
Key takeaways
- Excessive bouncing and poor handling are signs of worn shock absorbers
- Increased stopping distance and vehicle sway compromise safety significantly
- Replace shock absorbers in axle pairs for balanced performance
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