When to Replace Shock Absorbers and Struts
Worn shocks do more than make the ride bouncy — they affect braking and grip. A Cranbourne West specialist explains the warning signs and why they’re a safety item.
Signs your shocks are worn
Look for a bouncy or floaty ride, nose-diving under braking, the back squatting under acceleration, clunks over bumps, uneven or “cupped” tyre wear, or fluid leaking down the shock body. A car that wallows over bumps has tired dampers.
Shocks wear gradually, so many drivers don’t notice how far gone they are until they’re replaced.
Why they’re a safety item
Shocks keep your tyres in contact with the road. Worn ones increase stopping distances, reduce grip in corners and emergencies, and accelerate tyre wear. It’s a genuine safety issue, not just comfort — and they’re a roadworthy item.
They’re normally replaced in pairs (both fronts or both rears) so the car stays balanced.
Getting them checked
Because they wear slowly, a proper inspection is the best way to know — we check for leaks, bounce-test and look at tyre wear patterns. If they’re due, we’ll quote a fixed price.
Ride feeling floaty or the car nose-diving? Book a suspension check.
When to Replace Shock Absorbers and Struts — FAQ
A bouncy or floaty ride, nose-diving under braking, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear, or fluid leaking from the shock.
Yes — they increase stopping distances and reduce grip, and they’re a roadworthy item. It’s a safety issue, not just comfort.
Usually yes — replacing both on an axle keeps the car balanced and handling evenly.
They wear gradually, so a proper inspection (leak check, bounce test, tyre wear) is the reliable way to tell.
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