Oil leaks, strange noises, loss of damping and corrosion: MSG Equipment lists common shock absorber faults and their likely causes.
Shock absorbers soften impacts and vibrations on uneven roads and keep the car stable. MSG Equipment notes that degraded shock absorber performance raises accident risk and markedly reduces comfort.
The most common faults listed are:
- oil leaks – seals worn by age, misaligned installation, rod surface defects or low-quality repair parts,
- strange noises – worn bushings and silent blocks, loose fasteners, damaged valves,
- loss of damping – the car “floats”, body roll increases in turns and grip deteriorates,
- corrosion – especially in harsh climates, shortening service life.
The article stresses that loss of damping is particularly dangerous at high speed, when the car becomes less stable.