Dangers of Worn-out Shock Absorbers

 

Shock absorbers may not always be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about car safety, but these parts play a vital role in keeping your vehicle stable, comfortable, and, most importantly, safe on the road. When shock absorbers wear out, the effects extend far beyond a bumpy ride. Here’s a look at why they’re essential, what happens when they’re worn out, and how to recognise the signs of wear and tear.

Shock absorber safety might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about vehicle security, but it’s essential for keeping your ride stable, comfortable, and above all, safe. When shock absorbers are worn out, the effects go far beyond just a bumpy ride. Here’s why they’re crucial, what happens as they wear down, and how to spot early signs of wear and tear.

What is the Role of Shock Absorbers on your Car?

Shock absorbers are part of the suspension system, controlling the bounce of your tyres after they hit bumps, potholes, and other rough surfaces. They work by converting kinetic energy (from suspension movement) into heat, dampening the rebound effect that would otherwise make your ride unsteady. In short, they help keep your tyres on the ground for better grip, handling, and braking response.

Effects of Worn Shocks on Road Safety

Increased Stopping Distance

When worn-out shock absorbers are no longer able to stabilise your tyres on rough or uneven surfaces, the tyres lose consistent contact with the road. This decreases the amount of control you have when braking, and it’s often worse in wet or slippery conditions. A worn shock absorber can increase stopping distance by up to 20%, which could be the difference between a near-miss and an accident.

Reduced Vehicle Stability and Control

When shock absorbers deteriorate, they allow more movement in your car’s suspension. This leads to an unstable ride, particularly noticeable when turning or making sudden lane changes. You might find your car sways or leans more in corners, or even feels like it’s “floating” on highways. This loss of stability can make handling tricky, increasing the risk of rollovers or collisions, especially if you need to react quickly on the road.

Increased Tyre Wear

Shock absorbers keep your tyres firmly grounded, ensuring even wear patterns and optimal tyre life. However, with worn shocks, your tyres are likely to experience uneven wear, known as “cupping” or “scalloping.” This pattern often leads to a bumpy ride, poor traction, and the need for premature tyre replacement. It’s an extra cost that can easily be avoided by keeping shocks in good condition.

Decreased Comfort and Ride Quality

While comfort might not seem like a critical issue, it plays a role in driver focus and fatigue. When your shock absorbers aren’t working correctly, every pothole, bump, or crack in the road feels exaggerated, giving you and your passengers a noticeably uncomfortable ride. Over time, the constant bouncing can be tiring and distracting, reducing driver attention on long trips.

Negative Impact on Other Suspension Parts

Shock absorbers also protect other suspension components from excessive wear and tear. Worn shocks can lead to strain on bushings, ball joints, and other suspension parts, potentially leading to costly repairs. The extra movement in the suspension system wears these components faster, which may leave you facing repairs far more expensive than simply replacing the shock absorbers.

How To Spot Worn Out Shock Absorbers

Spotting the signs of worn-out shock absorbers early can save you both time and money. Here are a few key indicators to watch out for:

• Longer Stopping Distance – If it’s taking you longer to stop than it used to, worn shocks could be part of the problem.
• Excessive Bounce – Push down on your bonnet or boot; if your car continues to bounce after releasing it, this indicates worn shocks.
• Uneven Tyre Wear – Check your tyres for irregular patterns that look scalloped or cupped.
• Swaying or Body Roll – If your car leans or sways more in turns, it’s likely time to inspect your shocks.
• Fluid Leaks – Shock absorbers are filled with hydraulic fluid. Any visible fluid leaking from them indicates a seal failure, reducing their effectiveness.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Shock Absorbers?

The cost of replacing shock absorbers varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as labour costs. On average, you can expect to pay between $450 to $1000+  to refresh your shock absorbers. Like with any vehicle part avoid choosing unreliable cheaper brands as you may be experiencing the same symptoms you started with before you know it. At Superspares we recommend  KYB, Monroe, Sachs and Webco. It’s also strongly recommended to change your strut mounts when refreshing your shocks, as if they’ve never been replaced before they are likely also worn out.

How to Avoid Shock Absorber Issues

To keep your shock absorbers and suspension system in peak condition:

1. Regular Inspections – Include shock absorber checks in your routine car inspections. It’s recommended to get them checked by a professional every 20,000 km or as advised by your vehicle manufacturer.
2. Replace Shocks as Needed – Most shock absorbers last around 50,000 to 100,000 km, depending on driving conditions and habits. If you often drive on rough roads or carry heavy loads, you may need replacements sooner.
3. Drive Carefully on Rough Roads – Minimising your speed on rough or unsealed roads can reduce wear on your shocks.
4. Be Aware of Load Limits – Heavy loads place extra stress on shock absorbers, so stick to recommended load limits to avoid premature wear.

Drive Safe with Quality Shock Absorbers from Superspares

Keeping your vehicle safe on the road means staying on top of essential maintenance like shock absorber replacements and other main suspension parts. At Superspares, we offer a wide range of premium-quality shock absorbers, ensuring you’re covered for whatever terrain Australia’s roads throw at you. Check out our online store for reliable, long-lasting shock absorbers that will keep you and your passengers safe and comfortable on every journey.