Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Shock Absorbers
Author: Toby Date Posted:25 October 2024
Shock absorbers play a crucial role in keeping your ride smooth and your car stable, whether you're on the highway or navigating rough terrain. Over time, these components wear out, causing your vehicle to feel bumpy and lose handling precision. Replacing your shock absorbers isn’t as complicated as you might think, and with the right tools and know-how, you can do it yourself.
Here’s everything you need to know on how to replace shock absorbers for your vehicle.
Tools You’ll Need:
Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- New shock absorbers
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set and wrenches
- Torque wrench
- Penetrating fluid spray (for rusty bolts)
- Safety gear (gloves and eye protection)
Step 1: Get the Right Shock Absorbers
To begin, you need shock absorbers that suit both your vehicle’s make and model, as well as your driving conditions, so always check your vehicle’s manual or consult with one of our experts. If you frequently drive off-road or carry heavy loads, you might need a more robust shock absorber compared to one used for city driving. You can either opt for a direct replacement or choose an upgraded version for better performance—it’s a personal preference. Additionally, remember that shock absorbers are different from struts, which include additional structural support.
You can easily navigate Superspares’ new shock absorbers and look for your specific car model and needs.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle
Use a jack to lift the vehicle, but first, consult your vehicle’s manual for the correct jack positioning to avoid damage and ensure safety. Once the car is lifted, securely place it on jack stands—never rely solely on the jack, as it could fail while you're working. Ensure the stands are placed on solid ground and double-check their stability. After the vehicle is safely raised, remove the wheels to access the shock absorbers. Keeping the wheel nuts in a safe spot will make reinstallation easier later.
Step 3: Remove the Old Shock Absorbers
The shock absorbers are usually attached to the vehicle with bolts at both the top and bottom. Before starting, use penetrating fluid spray on the bolts to loosen any rust or corrosion, giving it a few minutes to work. Begin by removing the lower bolt. Use a wrench or socket set, applying steady pressure to loosen it.
After the bottom is unbolted, move to the top mount, which may require accessing the bolts from the trunk, cargo area, or enginebay, depending on your car's design. Be sure to consult your manual for specifics.
If the shock is stuck after removing the bolts, apply more penetrating fluid spray or use a rubber mallet to gently tap it free without damaging surrounding parts. Once removed, check the shock absorber for any signs of leakage or damage to understand its condition before replacing it.
Step 4: Install the New Shock Absorbers
Now it’s time to fit the new shock absorbers. Begin by aligning the new shock in place, starting with the top mount. Insert the bolts and hand-tighten them to hold the shock in position. Once both the top and bottom bolts are in place, use your torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.
Step 5: Reassemble and Lower the Vehicle
After securing the new shocks, it’s time to put everything back together. Reinstall the wheels and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specs. Then, slowly lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Step 6: Test Drive
Take your car for a test drive to ensure that the new shock absorbers are working correctly. Pay attention to the smoothness of the ride, how the car handles corners, and whether any unusual noises are coming from the suspension.
When to Replace Shock Absorbers
Wondering if your shocks need replacing? Look out for signs of worn-out shock absorbers, such as:
- Excessive bouncing after hitting a bump
- Uneven tyre wear
- Leaking fluid from the shocks
- Increased stopping distance
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it might be time to swap out your old shocks for new ones.
Why Replacing Shock Absorbers is Important
Shock absorbers are essential for maintaining control of your vehicle. Worn shocks can lead to longer stopping distances, decreased comfort, and even tyre damage. In fact, studies have shown that a car with 50% worn shocks can take an extra 2.6 metres to come to a complete stop when driving at 80 km/h on uneven surfaces. That extra distance can make a big difference, especially when driving in unpredictable conditions.
Replacing your shocks can significantly improve your car’s handling and safety, making it a worthwhile investment for any vehicle owner.
Now that you know how to replace shock absorbers, you can confidently tackle the job, saving both time and money. For top-quality shock absorbers and other suspension parts, explore the extensive range available at Superspares. We've got everything you need to keep your vehicle performing its best, whether you’re hitting the outback or cruising through the city.
