The risks of a failed shock absorber and how to assess it through visual inspection, the bounce test and a road test.
Worn shock absorbers reduce comfort and safety and accelerate wear on bearings, ball joints, rims and tyres. When a wheel loses grip over a bump, an accident can follow.
- Visual check: look for oil leaks, corrosion, mechanical damage, bending and worn dust boots. Leaks or bending mean replacement.
- Bounce test: push down a corner of the body and release; noticeable oscillation shows the damper is not working.
- Road test: assess body roll during sharp manoeuvres at low speed on a flat road.
For a definitive result, measurement on dedicated workshop test equipment is recommended.